Extension users’ view on alternative sources of fund for extension services in Ogun state

Abstract

Extension services in Nigeria have been faced with daunting challenges which affect the quality of service delivery. Among these challenges is the issue of funding hence, this study assessed the views of end users of agricultural extension services in Ogun state about sources of alternative funding. Fifty two small-scale farmers and 15 private farms were randomly selected and information elicited through an interview guide. The information collected was analyzed mainly using descriptive analytical tools such as frequency, mean and percentages. The results of the analysis shows that 86.5% of the small scale farmers are male with low level of education but have been farming for above 15 years and farm on less than 2 Ha of land while the private farms have been practising for less than 15 years with only 20% farming on above 15 Ha. The major source of funding extension presently is from the state government while other possible sources of funding identified include donor agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations, joint financing through Public-Private-Partnership and the farmers themselves. Also, 82.7% of the farmers and 60% of the private farms are willing to pay for extension services with an annual mean price of N6,755 and N24,455 respectively. The constraints facing extension financing identified are sourcing and management related issues. The study therefore recommends the commercialization of extension services thus allowing the government to regulate activities and enhance commitment of all stakeholders.

Keywords: extension services, alternative source, funding, agricultural extension, farmers