ORGANIZATIONAL EFFICIENCY OF EXTENSION SERVICE IN AGRICULTURE IN IMO STATE

ABSTRACT

The study aimed at examining the organizational efficiency of extension service in Imo State Agricultural Development Programme by specifically looking at its organizational setup, qualifications and functions of the extension personnel and operational efficiency of Imo State ADP. Multi stage random sampling technique was used to collect data from 50 farmer respondents and 50 extension respondents using structured questionnaires and interview schedule. The data collected were analyzed using appropriate statistical tools such as Mean, Frequency distribution and Percentages, which were used to analyze the organizational setup of the extension service, qualifications and functions of the extension personnel and efficiency of Imo ADP extension service. Farmers’ assessment of the performance of Imo ADP as well as factors influencing the efficiency or otherwise of the extension service were determined using the Likert type scale. While the hypothesized relationship was established using Ordinary Least Square multiple regression model. The study observed that direct relationship exists between operational efficiency of the extension service and the organizational setup of Imo State ADP. The extension service of Imo ADP extension service was managed and administered by different levels of officers at the state headquarter, zonal headquarters, Block and Circle levels. TTC/NCE/OND was the minimum qualification possessed by the extension personnel. Inadequate funding, lack of personnel motivation and training were the major problems militating against the organizational efficiency of the extension service. The study therefore recommended that the organization of the extension service at Headquarter, Zonal, Block and Circle levels should be improved and sustained for organizing extension service in Nigeria. Alternative sources of funding extension service in Nigeria, as well as adequate training and motivation of staff should be put in place