Assessment of Extension Agents Competencies Needed for Boosting Food Production Through Self Help Groups in Northeast Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examined perceived competencies needed by extension agents in boosting
food production of SHG members North East, Nigeria. Descriptive survey approach
was used in the study. Using multi-stage cluster sampling procedure, a total sample
of 374 extension agents were sampled from a total population of 2,042 that make up
the 3 sampled states. Data was collected using adopted structured instruments
(Questionnaire) ‘Technology Adoption and Utilization Instruments’ (TAUI) and
‘Group Performance Measurement Indicators’ (GPMI). Data was analysed using
descriptive statistics (frequency, mean and SD). The results indicate that extension
agents possess varying demographic characteristics and majority are within the 30 -
44 years old. The level of general, specific and specialized competencies are moderate
across majority of the extension agents. The competencies mostly needed now for
boosting food production by SHG members are mitigation strategies, model village,
soft skills, conflict management and ICT skills. The findings indicate the contribution
of competencies in SHGs food production is high. The paper concludes that individual
extension agent competencies have contributed immensely towards boosting food
production in North-Eastern Nigeria. The paper also recommends intensive training
of extension agents in the area of ICT and other digital skills and government agencies
should use modern methods to strengthen the operations of SHGs within their domain.