1 Extension Worker for 6,466 Farmers: A Growing Concern

The Critical Need for Agricultural Extension in Nigeria

The 2025 National Agricultural Extension Review and Planning Meeting (NAERPM) has brought to light a pressing issue in Nigeria's agricultural sector: the extremely low ratio of agricultural extension workers to farm families. This ratio is currently estimated at 1:6,466, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of extension services across the country.

Experts attending the meeting emphasized that this gap significantly hinders the delivery of efficient agricultural support, which in turn affects productivity and leads to poor crop yields. The meeting, themed 'Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agricultural Extension in Nigeria: Addressing Climate Change, Digital Gaps and Gender Equity,' was organized by the National Agricultural Research and Extension System (NAERLS) at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

A communiqué signed by Dr. Habib N. Abubakar of the National Centre for Research on Industrial Crops (NCRI) and ten other experts highlighted the urgent need for action to strengthen agricultural extension services. The participants pointed out several challenges facing the sector, including the devastating impact of climate change. These include over N700 billion in annual losses due to flooding, unpredictable rainfall patterns, heat stress, disease outbreaks, conflicts between farmers and herders, soil degradation, and prolonged droughts.

Another major concern raised during the meeting was the insufficient funding allocated to agriculture. The sector receives only 2-3% of the national budget, with extension services getting just 4-8% of that amount. Additionally, the slow release of research funds was identified as a significant obstacle to progress.

Recommendations for Improvement

To address these challenges, the experts proposed several measures aimed at improving the efficiency and reach of agricultural extension services. One key recommendation was the recruitment of more frontline extension agents to help bridge the worker-to-farmer gap. They also suggested the adoption of e-extension platforms and farm radio as innovative tools to enhance communication and support for farmers.

In addition to increasing the number of extension workers, the participants called for increased budgetary allocations for agriculture. They stressed the importance of timely release of funds to ensure that resources are available when needed. Strengthening agricultural research systems was also highlighted as a critical step to ensure that innovations are effectively disseminated and scaled up at the farmer level.

The Role of Technology and Collaboration

The meeting underscored the potential of technology in transforming agricultural extension services. E-extension platforms can provide farmers with access to real-time information, expert advice, and market insights, regardless of their location. Farm radio, on the other hand, remains a vital tool for reaching rural communities where internet connectivity may be limited.

Collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and private sector stakeholders was also emphasized as essential for driving sustainable agricultural development. By working together, these entities can create an ecosystem that supports innovation, improves productivity, and ensures food security for the growing population.

Conclusion

The findings from the 2025 NAERPM serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. With the right investments, policies, and technologies, Nigeria can overcome the current challenges and build a resilient and productive agricultural system. The time to act is now, as the future of food security and rural livelihoods depends on it.