FARMERS’ KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION OF PRIVATIZATION AND COMMERCIALIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the knowledge and perception of farmers on the privatization and commercialization (P and C) of agricultural extension services in Delta State, Nigeria. A sample size of 90 farmers in contact with extension was randomly selected for the study. Agricultural extension agents in each of the 9 extension cells involved in the study provided the list of farmers from which sample was drawn. Data for the study was collected through the use of a validated structured interview schedule. Trained field assistants selected in each location in addition to the researcher collected the data. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing data generated from the study. Results showed that respondents had a low to moderate knowledge regarding the concept, principles and objectives of P and C. Respondents also had a favourable perception towards P and C of agricultural extension services. There was no significant difference in the perceptions of small, medium and large-scale farmers. The study concluded that the favourable perception held by the respondents was an indication of their willingness to accept the introduction of P and C in agricultural extension services delivery. It therefore recommends that the government of Delta State should consider privatizing and/or commercializing agricultural extension services in the state.