HUMAN CAPACITY AND AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES DELIVERY IN AKWA IBOM STATE

Abstract

The study examined the factors influencing human capacity strengthening in the delivery of agricultural extension services in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Given the crucial role of agricultural extension services in improving agricultural productivity and rural development, the study aimed to identify key factors that increase the effectiveness of these services. Data from 200 respondents were collected using a multistage random sampling technique and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings showed that the majority of the extension agents were aged between 40 – 50 years and had attained tertiary level of education with a mean monthly income of N118, 308.3 and 5 to 10 years of working experience. Also, there was a majority consensus by the respondents on human capacity strengthening activities especially virtual workshops on communication skills, forging partnerships with other organizations, mentorship programs, and synergy between extension workers and supervisors. Furthermore, the regression results indicated that adequate training materials, input supply, funding, communication channels and skilled mentorship were significant factors influencing the effectiveness of agricultural extension services. The respondents also considered work experience, incentive support, and specialization categories as factors influencing human capacity strengthening. It is recommended to increase funding, ensure a reliable supply of inputs, develop effective communication channels, implement structured mentoring programs, provide comprehensive training materials, conduct regular supervisor visits, improve infrastructure and transportation, promote specialization and experience, encourage incentive programs develop and promote collaboration with research institutions and other interest groups.