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

Abstract

The understanding of specific information needs, sources and use is essential towards better targeting of extension programmes and advisory services that will enhance sustainable agricultural development. The study therefore assessed the information needs of rural farmers in crop production in Borgu Local Government area of Niger State, Nigeria. Multi stage sampling technique was employed to select 132 respondents for the study comprising of crop farmers. Interview schedule was used to elicit information for the study. The responses were analysed using frequency counts, percentages and mean score. The result showed that 41.7% of the respondents were within the age range of 31 – 40 years with relative low level of education and 44.7% of the respondents have no contact with extension agents. The information on processing of farm produce (3.14), land management practices (3.13), climate change (3.11) and pest and diseases management (2.97) had the highest scores on the perception of level of information needs on crop production. The major sources farmers relied on for information on crop production in the study area were radio (68.2%), extension posters (66.7%) and friends/neighbours (64.4%). Inadequate awareness on crop production information needed (89.4%), poor extension contact (87.1%), language barrier in (84.8%) were the major challenges facing crop farmers in accessing crop production information. Awareness of relevant information through appropriate sources, improved extension contact, reduced extension agents – farmers` language barrier can stimulate farmer’s interest on various extension programmes that can be of benefit in crop production.