INFORMATION NEEDS OF CROP FARMERS IN BORGU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

The understanding of specific needs, sources and use is essential toward better targeting of extension programme and advisory service that will enhance sustainable agricultural development. The study therefore assessed the information needs of the farmersin crop production in Borgu local government areas of Niger State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling techniques was employed select 132 respondents for the study comprising of crop farmers. Interview schedules was used to elicit information for the study. The responses were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages and mean score. The results showed that 41.7%of the respondents have no contact with extension agents. The information on processing of farm produce 3.14, land management practice 3.13, climate change 3.11 and pest and disease management 2.97 had the highest scores on the perception of level of information needs on crop production. The major sources farmers rely on for information on crop production in the study area were radio 68.2%, extension posters 66.7% and friends and neighbours 64.4%. Inadequate awareness on crop production information needed 89.4%, poor extension contact 87.1%, language barriers 84.8% were the major challenges facing crop farmers in accessing crop production information. Awareness of relevant information through appropriate sources, improved extension contact, reduce extension agents – farmers’ language barrier can stimulate farmer’s interest on various programme that can be benefit in crop production.