Information Needs of Agricultural Extension Workers for Agricultural Activities in Kano State

Abstract

This study examined the information needs and challenges of Agricultural Extension Workers in Kano State, Nigeria, with a view to identifying the specific information requirements essential for effective agricultural service delivery. Using the Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination framework, 295 extension workers were selected from a total population of 1,265 extension workers across the three zones of the Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (KNARDA). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using frequencies and percentages with the aid of SPSS version 16.0. The findings revealed five critical and previously under-reported information needs of agricultural extension workers, namely: information on animal breeding, postharvest technology, cultivation mechanisms, animal health, and fertilizer application. The study contributes to the fields of agricultural extension and information management by highlighting the specific information gaps that must be addressed to enhance extension service delivery. Based on the findings, the study recommends that relevant agencies should provide appropriate information resources and services in libraries and information centres; government should employ professional librarians and information personnel; adequate funding should be allocated to extension services; and information communication technologies such as computers and internet access should be provided to extension workers to facilitate their work.