How does Extension Education Contribute to Agricultural Development? Insights from Extension Education of Green River Project in Nigeria

Abstract

Due to the need to explain how extension education adds to Agricultural development in Nigeria, extension service of Green River Project was evaluated. In recognition of the roles of Agricultural development in reducing poverty and promoting food security, agricultural programs with their extension services component have been implemented in Nigeria. The study examined the teaching methods and impact of the extension service of Green River Project on fish farmers in the study area. Data collection involved use of interview schedule and questionnaire to elicit information from 140 respondents. Program evaluation models reviewed include logic model, Kirkpatrick learning evaluation model and Boon programming model. A framework for planning and evaluating extension education program was generated. Results indicated that extension education of GRP had significant impact on some conditions of the farmers such as their quantity of fish produce (t= 6.279; p≤ 0.05), income (t=7.390) and family feeding standard (X2=26.5; p≤ 0.05). It was recommended that there should be collaboration of GRP with other agencies that provide similar services to fish farmers in Niger Delta areas like other agricultural projects of some oil companies in the area and proper measures should be put in place to provide internet services for GRP personnel.