Description
Background: This study assessed the effect of agricultural extension strategies among farmers in Calabar South Local Government Area. The study specifically identified the extension strategies prevalent in the study area and ascertained the effect of agricultural extension strategies towards farmers' crop productivity.
Method: The population consists of all crop farmers in the study area. A two-stage sampling technique was used to obtain a sample size of 110 respondents. The instrument for data collection was a set of structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics which includes frequency distribution table, percentages, means and ranks.
Result: Findings of the study showed that the most prevalent extension strategies in the study area is digital extension strategies such as use mobile phone, internet, social media platforms etc. Effects of agricultural extension strategies on farmers' crop productivity in the area through included; adoption of technology and improved access to resources. The study recommended that, agricultural stakeholders should provide tools and strategies to help farmers mitigate uncertainties such as climate variability and market fluctuations, addressing one of their critical needs.
Introduction
In Nigeria, agricultural extension services play a critical role in supporting farmers' productivity and food security by providing education, resources, and technology to enhance crop yields (Etim and Effiong, (2022); Etim, et al., 2022). The country's extension services use a range of strategies to reach farmers, including face-to-face interactions, mass media, digital platforms, participatory methods, and gender-responsive approaches (Birhanu, et al., 2019). Each strategy has distinct advantages: for instance, face-to-face visits enable hands-on learning, while mass media reaches a broader audience efficiently. Digital platforms, though newer, show promise in delivering timely information directly to farmers’ mobile phones, which is especially valuable in remote areas (Ijioma, et al., (2014), Nkang and Effiong (2015)). Additionally, participatory and gender-responsive strategies ensure that extension services are inclusive and tailored to the diverse needs of both male and female farmers (Aboh and Effiong, 2019a). Together, these strategies aim to empower Nigeria’s agricultural communities by fostering innovation, adoption of improved practices, and ultimately, greater crop productivity. some impact of agricultural extension strategies on farmers' crop productivity were highlighted. Face-to-face extension strategies, such as farm visits, group meetings, and hands-on demonstrations, have proven to be effective in enhancing farmers' productivity by providing them with essential knowledge and skills (Effiong and Aboh, (2018); Effiong, (2013); Effiong (2024a) and Effiong, (2024b).
These strategies support the adoption of innovative technologies and practices, which are crucial for improving crop yields. Birhanu et al. (2019) demonstrated the success of face-to-face approaches in Ethiopia, where farmers who received these extension services achieved higher yields in maize and wheat compared to those who did not participate. Mass media and digital extension strategies also play important roles in agricultural productivity (Aboh and Effiong, 2019b). Mass media, including radio and television, has been effective in reaching a large farmer audience, particularly in rural settings (Effiong, et al., (2021); Effiong and Asikong, (2013), Effiong, et al., (2016)). For example, Oke and Ogunlade (2016) found that Nigerian farmers who followed a radio program on cassava production practices saw higher yields than those who did not listen. Similarly, digital strategies like mobile phone-based platforms have emerged as a valuable tool, especially in regions with limited access to traditional extension services. In Kenya, Kiptot and Heberlein (2014) reported that farmers receiving mobile extension messages saw increased yields in maize and beans.
Participatory and gender-responsive extension strategies emphasize inclusivity and farmer-led innovation. Participatory approaches, such as farmer field schools, enhance the relevance of extension programs by engaging farmers directly in the innovation process, as seen in Uganda, where farmers involved in integrated soil fertility management field schools reported higher maize and bean yields (Kabunga, et al., (2014); Effiong, (2012); Effiong and Aboh, (2024)). Gender-responsive strategies aim to address the unique roles and needs of women in agriculture, leading to more equitable outcomes. Bhattarai et al. (2014) found that Indian women receiving gender-sensitive extension services experienced improved yields in wheat and rice, highlighting the importance of gender-aware approaches in maximizing the impact of agricultural extension (Effiong and Aboh, (2018); Effiong, et al., (2024).
LITERATURE REVIEW
Ayanwuyi, Adeola and Oyetoro (2013) examined the relevance of agricultural extension services on crop production in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. The study made use of primary data from 112 farmers sampled for the study. Descriptive statistics and the t-test were used to analyze the data collected. The study revealed that almost all the respondents were visited by village extension agents. Respondents also emphasized the relevance of agricultural practices introduced by extension agents. The findings, however, showed that there was no important difference in land use before and after extension services, but there was an important different in crops yield. The study concluded that there is the need for motivation of extension agent through adequate provision of field operation facilities to encourage their commitment and dedication to duty.
Oluwususi and Akanni (2014) investigated the effectiveness of extension services among food crop farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 145 respondents in the study area and the data collected were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that there was a important relationship between age, sex, level of education, farming experience, farmer’s attitude toward extension services, extension services received, and the effectiveness of extension services. The study concluded that training and increased incentives for extension agents as well as proper monitoring and evaluation of extension budgets are pertinent to improving extension service delivery to farmers.
Hamisu et al. (2017) reviewed the status of agricultural extension service in Nigeria. The study identified improvement in agricultural production, environmental degradation, biotechnology, reduction in government support for public research and extension, entrance of private service providers, increasing private sector involvement and development of information and communication technology in extension service as the major challenges facing agricultural extension service in Nigeria. It however concluded that there was need to legislate agricultural extension policy so that it will be well organized, financially stable for effectiveness and sustained impact (Effiong & Effiong, 2012).
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The study was carried out in Calabar South Local Government Area, in Cross River State. Calabar South is one of the eighteen (18) Local Government Areas of Cross River State. The area is in the southern part of Nigeria and has a population of about 168,000 people. It is between latitude 4.95890N and longitude 8.32280E. It covers an area of about 120-678 sqkm. In the North, it is bounded by Calabar Municipality, in the South by Calabar River, in the East by Akpabuyo and in the West by Odukpani. The vegetation in the area is mainly mangrove swamps and rainforest. It has the following predominant crops: cassava, banana, plantain, rice, yam, maize, melon, pepper, pumpkin, water leaf etc. The population comprised of all crop farmers in the study area.
Data was sourced from primary sources through the use of structured questionnaires. A two-stage sampling technique was used for the study. In the first stage, out of ten (10) cells in the study areas, five (5) cells were purposively selected based on the intensity of their agricultural production, while the second stage involved the random selection of twenty-two (22) crop farmers from each of the five (5) selected cells. This gave a sample size of 110 respondents. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Chart 1 reveals that digital and mass media extension strategies are the most prevalent among farmers, with mean ratings of 3.03 and 2.9, respectively. These strategies, which include mobile phones, internet platforms, radio, and TV, offer accessible and scalable ways to disseminate agricultural knowledge, making them popular choices in the study area. Face-to-face extension strategies, such as farm visits and group meetings, also hold a relatively high mean rating of 2.5, reflecting farmers' appreciation for direct, interactive learning. Conversely, participatory and agro-dealer extension strategies, with mean ratings of 1.58 and 1.8, show lower levels of usage or effectiveness, possibly due to their more resource-intensive nature or limited reach compared to digital and mass media methods. This distribution highlights a trend towards accessible, technology-driven extension approaches that meet the broad communication needs of farmers
Chart 2 illustrates the mean usage of various recommended extension strategies among farmers in the study area. Digital extension strategies and face-to-face strategies stand out with the highest mean usage, both close to or above a mean of 2.8, suggesting that these methods are particularly effective or accessible for farmers. Mass media strategies, though slightly lower, are still moderately utilized. In contrast, participatory and gender-responsive strategies show lower mean values, indicating limited adoption or effectiveness compared to the others. This distribution suggests a preference for technology-driven and direct interaction methods, while participatory and gender-sensitive approaches may require more support to increase their utilization among farmers.
The results in Table 1 indicated that skill development (x̄ = 3.53), social and economic development (x̄ =3.51), and risk management (x̄ = 3.48) are the most valued agricultural extension strategies, each with a mean rating above 3.5. These strategies likely resonate strongly with farmers due to their practical relevance in improving livelihood security and farming effectiveness. Skill development stands out as a top priority, as it provides farmers with essential abilities that can increase productivity and resilience. Similarly, social and economic development is highly valued for its role in enhancing community well-being and economic stability, directly contributing to the long-term sustainability of farmers’ livelihoods. Risk management is also highly rated, reflecting its importance in helping farmers address the uncertainties they face, such as climate variability and price fluctuations. Several strategies are rated with moderate importance, with means between 3.3 and 3.5.
These include problem-solving (x̄ = 3.31), improved access to resources (x̄ = 3.28), market access (x̄ = 3.24), sustainable practices (x̄ = 3.24), and knowledge transfer (x̄ = 3.24). Problem-solving services, which support farmers in handling immediate issues like pest control or crop health, are important but may not provide as enduring benefits as skill development. Improved access to resources is also moderately valued, suggesting that while seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs are essential, farmers may consider these secondary to acquiring practical skills. Market access services, although important for income, are also viewed with moderate importance, possibly because farmers prioritize production capacity over marketability. The strategy rated with the lowest importance is technology adoption (x̄ = 3.10), which may reflect barriers such as the cost, complexity, or perceived relevance of new tools. Sustainable practices and knowledge transfer also have moderate to low ratings, indicating that while these services are beneficial, they may not be immediately impactful for all farmers. Overall, the results show a preference for strategies that directly impact productivity, financial security, and risk mitigation, with practical skills and economic development seen as foundational to sustainable agricultural success.
The findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of various agricultural extension strategies for crop farmers in Calabar South, highlighting farmers' priorities and needs. Research Baig and Aldosari, (2013) has shown that farmers prioritize strategies that enhance their capacity to manage resources, mitigate risks, and improve livelihood resilience. Studies by Aker (2011) on rural agricultural development in Nigeria have highlighted that, although market access and input provision are essential, farmers often view them as secondary to knowledge-building and risk management.
CONCLUSION
The findings indicate that agricultural extension strategies importantly impact farmers' crop productivity, particularly by enhancing technology adoption and improving access to essential resources. The high rankings for "Adoption of technology" and "Improved access to resources" suggest that these strategies help farmers embrace modern agricultural practices and obtain the tools they need for effective crop production. This access is critical, as it equips farmers with up-to-date knowledge and resources, ultimately leading to higher productivity. However, the relatively lower rankings for areas such as "Social and economic development" and "Skill development" imply that while extension services focus on immediate productivity factors, there may be gaps in fostering long-term capabilities and broader socio-economic benefits. While current extension strategies are effective in promoting adoption of technology and access to resources, broadening the focus to include skill-building, problem-solving, and social development could lead to even more sustainable and holistic improvements in agricultural productivity.
REFERENCES
Aboh, C. L., & Effiong, J. B. (2019a). Adoption of different weed management techniques among cocoa farmers in Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 25(1), 7–12.
Aboh, C. L., & Effiong, J. B. (2019b). Contributions of vegetable production to food security in Uruan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 25(1), 1–6.
Aker, J. C. (2011). Dial 'A' for agriculture: A review of information and communication technologies for agricultural extension in developing countries. Agricultural Economics, 42(6), 631-647.
Ayanwuyi, E., Adeola, R. G., & Oyetoro, J. O. (2013). Analysis of relevance of agricultural extension services on crop production in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Science Frontier Research Agriculture and Veterinary, 13(7), 1.0.
Baig, M. B., & Aldosari, F. O. (2013). Agricultural extension in Asia: Constraints and options for improvement. Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 23(2), 619-632.
Bhattarai, M., Pandey, S., & Joshi, N. (2014). Gender-responsive agricultural extension services and women's crop productivity: Evidence from Nepal. Journal of International Development, 26(6), 812-827.
Birhanu, M., Bezabih, M., & Alemu, D. (2019). The contribution of agricultural extension on the productivity of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia: A propensity score matching analysis. Agricultural and Food Economics, 7(1), 1-15.
Effiong, J. B. (2012). Youth participation in community development: Evidence from Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State. International Journal of Social Science Iowmorro, 1(6).
Effiong, J. B., & Aboh, C. L. (2018). Rubber production technologies and the related socioeconomic environments in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Agricultural Science, 17(1), 15-22.
Effiong, J. B., & Aboh, C. L. (2024). Effectiveness of agricultural extension models in food crop production in Cross River State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(3), 25871-25881.
Effiong, J. B., Aboh, C. L., & Azu, S. B. (2024). Effect of road infrastructure on food sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24852–24870.
Effiong, J. B., Aboh, C. L., & Aya, C. F. (2021). Perception of farmers on the contribution of vegetables to livelihoods in Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 27(2), 82-91.
Effiong, J. B., & Asikong, A. B. (2013). Mid-term assessment of the activities of Fadama III Development Project in Cross River State. Global Journal of Agricultural Science, 12(1), 31-35.
Effiong, J. B., Ijioma, J. C., & Effiong, M. O. (2016). Endogenous determinants of adoption of improved rubber production technologies among farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics and Sociology, 8(4), 2-7.
Effiong, J. B. (2013). Challenges and prospects of rural women in agricultural production in Nigeria. LWATI: A Journal of Contemporary Research, 10(2), 183–190.
Effiong, J. B. (2024). Influence of socioeconomic variables and extension inhibitors on food sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24710–24724.
Effiong, J. B. (2024). Right to food policies, justice, and sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24871–24892.
Effiong, J. B., & Effiong, J. B. (2012). Youth participation in community development: Evidence from Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State. International Journal of Social Science, 1(6).
Etim, O. U., Effiong, J. B., Okoi, K. O., & Ntui, O. E. (2022). Climate change impact on the use of plastic products among agro-marketers and horticultural enterprises in Calabar Agricultural Zone of Cross River State. International Journal of Agriculture and Earth Science, 8(1), 64–76. https://doi.org/10.56201/ijgem.v8.no1.2022.pg64.76
Etim, O. U., & Effiong, J. B. (2022). An evaluation of the benefits of the use of flexible and non-flexible plastic materials among agro-enterprise owners in the Calabar Agricultural Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agriculture and Earth Science, 8(5).
Hamisu, S., Ardo, A. M., Makinta, M. M., Garba, L., & Musa, G. (2017). A review on current status of agricultural extension service in Nigeria. Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research, 1(3),1-8.
Ijioma, J. C., Effiong, O. M., & Okolies, N. O. (2014). Small scale farmers’ perception in cassava (Manihot esculenta) production in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. LWATI: A Journal of Contemporary Research, 9(4), 56-65.
Kabunga, N. S., Dubois, T., Qaim, M., & Van der Veen, Y. (2014). Impact of farmer field schools on agricultural productivity and poverty in East Africa. World Development, 64, S125-S137.
Kiptot, E., & Heberlein, M. (2014). The impacts of mobile phone-based agricultural extension services on farmer knowledge and behavior: Evidence from Kenya. Agricultural Economics, 45(6), 643-654.
Nkang, M. O., & Effiong, J. B. (2015). The influence of consumers’ perception on pork and poultry meat consumption in Calabar South Local Government Area in Cross River State.
Oke, J. T., & Ogunlade, M. O. (2016). Impact of radio messages on improved cassava production technologies among smallholder farmers in Nigeria. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 11(42), 4304-4312.
John Effiong
J. B., Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, University of Calabar, Nigeria
Method: The population consists of all crop farmers in the study area. A two-stage sampling technique was used to obtain a sample size of 110 respondents. The instrument for data collection was a set of structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics which includes frequency distribution table, percentages, means and ranks.
Result: Findings of the study showed that the most prevalent extension strategies in the study area is digital extension strategies such as use mobile phone, internet, social media platforms etc. Effects of agricultural extension strategies on farmers' crop productivity in the area through included; adoption of technology and improved access to resources. The study recommended that, agricultural stakeholders should provide tools and strategies to help farmers mitigate uncertainties such as climate variability and market fluctuations, addressing one of their critical needs.
Introduction
In Nigeria, agricultural extension services play a critical role in supporting farmers' productivity and food security by providing education, resources, and technology to enhance crop yields (Etim and Effiong, (2022); Etim, et al., 2022). The country's extension services use a range of strategies to reach farmers, including face-to-face interactions, mass media, digital platforms, participatory methods, and gender-responsive approaches (Birhanu, et al., 2019). Each strategy has distinct advantages: for instance, face-to-face visits enable hands-on learning, while mass media reaches a broader audience efficiently. Digital platforms, though newer, show promise in delivering timely information directly to farmers’ mobile phones, which is especially valuable in remote areas (Ijioma, et al., (2014), Nkang and Effiong (2015)). Additionally, participatory and gender-responsive strategies ensure that extension services are inclusive and tailored to the diverse needs of both male and female farmers (Aboh and Effiong, 2019a). Together, these strategies aim to empower Nigeria’s agricultural communities by fostering innovation, adoption of improved practices, and ultimately, greater crop productivity. some impact of agricultural extension strategies on farmers' crop productivity were highlighted. Face-to-face extension strategies, such as farm visits, group meetings, and hands-on demonstrations, have proven to be effective in enhancing farmers' productivity by providing them with essential knowledge and skills (Effiong and Aboh, (2018); Effiong, (2013); Effiong (2024a) and Effiong, (2024b).
These strategies support the adoption of innovative technologies and practices, which are crucial for improving crop yields. Birhanu et al. (2019) demonstrated the success of face-to-face approaches in Ethiopia, where farmers who received these extension services achieved higher yields in maize and wheat compared to those who did not participate. Mass media and digital extension strategies also play important roles in agricultural productivity (Aboh and Effiong, 2019b). Mass media, including radio and television, has been effective in reaching a large farmer audience, particularly in rural settings (Effiong, et al., (2021); Effiong and Asikong, (2013), Effiong, et al., (2016)). For example, Oke and Ogunlade (2016) found that Nigerian farmers who followed a radio program on cassava production practices saw higher yields than those who did not listen. Similarly, digital strategies like mobile phone-based platforms have emerged as a valuable tool, especially in regions with limited access to traditional extension services. In Kenya, Kiptot and Heberlein (2014) reported that farmers receiving mobile extension messages saw increased yields in maize and beans.
Participatory and gender-responsive extension strategies emphasize inclusivity and farmer-led innovation. Participatory approaches, such as farmer field schools, enhance the relevance of extension programs by engaging farmers directly in the innovation process, as seen in Uganda, where farmers involved in integrated soil fertility management field schools reported higher maize and bean yields (Kabunga, et al., (2014); Effiong, (2012); Effiong and Aboh, (2024)). Gender-responsive strategies aim to address the unique roles and needs of women in agriculture, leading to more equitable outcomes. Bhattarai et al. (2014) found that Indian women receiving gender-sensitive extension services experienced improved yields in wheat and rice, highlighting the importance of gender-aware approaches in maximizing the impact of agricultural extension (Effiong and Aboh, (2018); Effiong, et al., (2024).
LITERATURE REVIEW
Ayanwuyi, Adeola and Oyetoro (2013) examined the relevance of agricultural extension services on crop production in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. The study made use of primary data from 112 farmers sampled for the study. Descriptive statistics and the t-test were used to analyze the data collected. The study revealed that almost all the respondents were visited by village extension agents. Respondents also emphasized the relevance of agricultural practices introduced by extension agents. The findings, however, showed that there was no important difference in land use before and after extension services, but there was an important different in crops yield. The study concluded that there is the need for motivation of extension agent through adequate provision of field operation facilities to encourage their commitment and dedication to duty.
Oluwususi and Akanni (2014) investigated the effectiveness of extension services among food crop farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 145 respondents in the study area and the data collected were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that there was a important relationship between age, sex, level of education, farming experience, farmer’s attitude toward extension services, extension services received, and the effectiveness of extension services. The study concluded that training and increased incentives for extension agents as well as proper monitoring and evaluation of extension budgets are pertinent to improving extension service delivery to farmers.
Hamisu et al. (2017) reviewed the status of agricultural extension service in Nigeria. The study identified improvement in agricultural production, environmental degradation, biotechnology, reduction in government support for public research and extension, entrance of private service providers, increasing private sector involvement and development of information and communication technology in extension service as the major challenges facing agricultural extension service in Nigeria. It however concluded that there was need to legislate agricultural extension policy so that it will be well organized, financially stable for effectiveness and sustained impact (Effiong & Effiong, 2012).
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The study was carried out in Calabar South Local Government Area, in Cross River State. Calabar South is one of the eighteen (18) Local Government Areas of Cross River State. The area is in the southern part of Nigeria and has a population of about 168,000 people. It is between latitude 4.95890N and longitude 8.32280E. It covers an area of about 120-678 sqkm. In the North, it is bounded by Calabar Municipality, in the South by Calabar River, in the East by Akpabuyo and in the West by Odukpani. The vegetation in the area is mainly mangrove swamps and rainforest. It has the following predominant crops: cassava, banana, plantain, rice, yam, maize, melon, pepper, pumpkin, water leaf etc. The population comprised of all crop farmers in the study area.
Data was sourced from primary sources through the use of structured questionnaires. A two-stage sampling technique was used for the study. In the first stage, out of ten (10) cells in the study areas, five (5) cells were purposively selected based on the intensity of their agricultural production, while the second stage involved the random selection of twenty-two (22) crop farmers from each of the five (5) selected cells. This gave a sample size of 110 respondents. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Chart 1 reveals that digital and mass media extension strategies are the most prevalent among farmers, with mean ratings of 3.03 and 2.9, respectively. These strategies, which include mobile phones, internet platforms, radio, and TV, offer accessible and scalable ways to disseminate agricultural knowledge, making them popular choices in the study area. Face-to-face extension strategies, such as farm visits and group meetings, also hold a relatively high mean rating of 2.5, reflecting farmers' appreciation for direct, interactive learning. Conversely, participatory and agro-dealer extension strategies, with mean ratings of 1.58 and 1.8, show lower levels of usage or effectiveness, possibly due to their more resource-intensive nature or limited reach compared to digital and mass media methods. This distribution highlights a trend towards accessible, technology-driven extension approaches that meet the broad communication needs of farmers
Figure1: Mean Rating of Respondents Based on Prevalent Extension Stratergies in the Study Area
Figure 2 : Mean Distribution of Respondents Based on Framers Usage of Recommended Extended Stratergies
Chart 2 illustrates the mean usage of various recommended extension strategies among farmers in the study area. Digital extension strategies and face-to-face strategies stand out with the highest mean usage, both close to or above a mean of 2.8, suggesting that these methods are particularly effective or accessible for farmers. Mass media strategies, though slightly lower, are still moderately utilized. In contrast, participatory and gender-responsive strategies show lower mean values, indicating limited adoption or effectiveness compared to the others. This distribution suggests a preference for technology-driven and direct interaction methods, while participatory and gender-sensitive approaches may require more support to increase their utilization among farmers.
Table 1: Mean rating of respondents based on effect of agricultural extension strategies on crop farmers
The results in Table 1 indicated that skill development (x̄ = 3.53), social and economic development (x̄ =3.51), and risk management (x̄ = 3.48) are the most valued agricultural extension strategies, each with a mean rating above 3.5. These strategies likely resonate strongly with farmers due to their practical relevance in improving livelihood security and farming effectiveness. Skill development stands out as a top priority, as it provides farmers with essential abilities that can increase productivity and resilience. Similarly, social and economic development is highly valued for its role in enhancing community well-being and economic stability, directly contributing to the long-term sustainability of farmers’ livelihoods. Risk management is also highly rated, reflecting its importance in helping farmers address the uncertainties they face, such as climate variability and price fluctuations. Several strategies are rated with moderate importance, with means between 3.3 and 3.5.
These include problem-solving (x̄ = 3.31), improved access to resources (x̄ = 3.28), market access (x̄ = 3.24), sustainable practices (x̄ = 3.24), and knowledge transfer (x̄ = 3.24). Problem-solving services, which support farmers in handling immediate issues like pest control or crop health, are important but may not provide as enduring benefits as skill development. Improved access to resources is also moderately valued, suggesting that while seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs are essential, farmers may consider these secondary to acquiring practical skills. Market access services, although important for income, are also viewed with moderate importance, possibly because farmers prioritize production capacity over marketability. The strategy rated with the lowest importance is technology adoption (x̄ = 3.10), which may reflect barriers such as the cost, complexity, or perceived relevance of new tools. Sustainable practices and knowledge transfer also have moderate to low ratings, indicating that while these services are beneficial, they may not be immediately impactful for all farmers. Overall, the results show a preference for strategies that directly impact productivity, financial security, and risk mitigation, with practical skills and economic development seen as foundational to sustainable agricultural success.
The findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of various agricultural extension strategies for crop farmers in Calabar South, highlighting farmers' priorities and needs. Research Baig and Aldosari, (2013) has shown that farmers prioritize strategies that enhance their capacity to manage resources, mitigate risks, and improve livelihood resilience. Studies by Aker (2011) on rural agricultural development in Nigeria have highlighted that, although market access and input provision are essential, farmers often view them as secondary to knowledge-building and risk management.
CONCLUSION
The findings indicate that agricultural extension strategies importantly impact farmers' crop productivity, particularly by enhancing technology adoption and improving access to essential resources. The high rankings for "Adoption of technology" and "Improved access to resources" suggest that these strategies help farmers embrace modern agricultural practices and obtain the tools they need for effective crop production. This access is critical, as it equips farmers with up-to-date knowledge and resources, ultimately leading to higher productivity. However, the relatively lower rankings for areas such as "Social and economic development" and "Skill development" imply that while extension services focus on immediate productivity factors, there may be gaps in fostering long-term capabilities and broader socio-economic benefits. While current extension strategies are effective in promoting adoption of technology and access to resources, broadening the focus to include skill-building, problem-solving, and social development could lead to even more sustainable and holistic improvements in agricultural productivity.
REFERENCES
Aboh, C. L., & Effiong, J. B. (2019a). Adoption of different weed management techniques among cocoa farmers in Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 25(1), 7–12.
Aboh, C. L., & Effiong, J. B. (2019b). Contributions of vegetable production to food security in Uruan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 25(1), 1–6.
Aker, J. C. (2011). Dial 'A' for agriculture: A review of information and communication technologies for agricultural extension in developing countries. Agricultural Economics, 42(6), 631-647.
Ayanwuyi, E., Adeola, R. G., & Oyetoro, J. O. (2013). Analysis of relevance of agricultural extension services on crop production in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Science Frontier Research Agriculture and Veterinary, 13(7), 1.0.
Baig, M. B., & Aldosari, F. O. (2013). Agricultural extension in Asia: Constraints and options for improvement. Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 23(2), 619-632.
Bhattarai, M., Pandey, S., & Joshi, N. (2014). Gender-responsive agricultural extension services and women's crop productivity: Evidence from Nepal. Journal of International Development, 26(6), 812-827.
Birhanu, M., Bezabih, M., & Alemu, D. (2019). The contribution of agricultural extension on the productivity of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia: A propensity score matching analysis. Agricultural and Food Economics, 7(1), 1-15.
Effiong, J. B. (2012). Youth participation in community development: Evidence from Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State. International Journal of Social Science Iowmorro, 1(6).
Effiong, J. B., & Aboh, C. L. (2018). Rubber production technologies and the related socioeconomic environments in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Agricultural Science, 17(1), 15-22.
Effiong, J. B., & Aboh, C. L. (2024). Effectiveness of agricultural extension models in food crop production in Cross River State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(3), 25871-25881.
Effiong, J. B., Aboh, C. L., & Azu, S. B. (2024). Effect of road infrastructure on food sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24852–24870.
Effiong, J. B., Aboh, C. L., & Aya, C. F. (2021). Perception of farmers on the contribution of vegetables to livelihoods in Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Science, 27(2), 82-91.
Effiong, J. B., & Asikong, A. B. (2013). Mid-term assessment of the activities of Fadama III Development Project in Cross River State. Global Journal of Agricultural Science, 12(1), 31-35.
Effiong, J. B., Ijioma, J. C., & Effiong, M. O. (2016). Endogenous determinants of adoption of improved rubber production technologies among farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics and Sociology, 8(4), 2-7.
Effiong, J. B. (2013). Challenges and prospects of rural women in agricultural production in Nigeria. LWATI: A Journal of Contemporary Research, 10(2), 183–190.
Effiong, J. B. (2024). Influence of socioeconomic variables and extension inhibitors on food sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24710–24724.
Effiong, J. B. (2024). Right to food policies, justice, and sovereignty in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 24(10), 24871–24892.
Effiong, J. B., & Effiong, J. B. (2012). Youth participation in community development: Evidence from Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State. International Journal of Social Science, 1(6).
Etim, O. U., Effiong, J. B., Okoi, K. O., & Ntui, O. E. (2022). Climate change impact on the use of plastic products among agro-marketers and horticultural enterprises in Calabar Agricultural Zone of Cross River State. International Journal of Agriculture and Earth Science, 8(1), 64–76. https://doi.org/10.56201/ijgem.v8.no1.2022.pg64.76
Etim, O. U., & Effiong, J. B. (2022). An evaluation of the benefits of the use of flexible and non-flexible plastic materials among agro-enterprise owners in the Calabar Agricultural Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. International Journal of Agriculture and Earth Science, 8(5).
Hamisu, S., Ardo, A. M., Makinta, M. M., Garba, L., & Musa, G. (2017). A review on current status of agricultural extension service in Nigeria. Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research, 1(3),1-8.
Ijioma, J. C., Effiong, O. M., & Okolies, N. O. (2014). Small scale farmers’ perception in cassava (Manihot esculenta) production in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. LWATI: A Journal of Contemporary Research, 9(4), 56-65.
Kabunga, N. S., Dubois, T., Qaim, M., & Van der Veen, Y. (2014). Impact of farmer field schools on agricultural productivity and poverty in East Africa. World Development, 64, S125-S137.
Kiptot, E., & Heberlein, M. (2014). The impacts of mobile phone-based agricultural extension services on farmer knowledge and behavior: Evidence from Kenya. Agricultural Economics, 45(6), 643-654.
Nkang, M. O., & Effiong, J. B. (2015). The influence of consumers’ perception on pork and poultry meat consumption in Calabar South Local Government Area in Cross River State.
Oke, J. T., & Ogunlade, M. O. (2016). Impact of radio messages on improved cassava production technologies among smallholder farmers in Nigeria. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 11(42), 4304-4312.
John Effiong
J. B., Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, University of Calabar, Nigeria
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