ASSESSING THE ICT-READINESS OF WORKERS IN BENUE STATE AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY FOR EFFECTIVE EXTENSION SERVICES DELIVERY.

Abstract

The study evaluated the readiness of extension workers at Benue State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (BNARDA) to deliver effective extension services in Benue State, Nigeria. The population for this study comprised all 166 extension workers of BNARDA. The study covered all four categories of extension workers in the three agro-ecological zones of the State. A proportionate and random sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 86 respondents, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The study's findings indicated that most extension workers were male, in their productive years, and held an HND/B.Sc certificates with considerable work experience. However, constraints such as poor maintenance culture of ICT facilities, high ICT costs, inadequate electricity and telecommunication connectivity, and limited ICT knowledge and skills among others hindered the effective use of internet-based services for agricultural extension. To address these challenges, providing extension workers with ICT devices, free internet connectivity, and training through collaborative efforts between BNARDA management, government agencies, and private organizations is essential, ultimately enhancing agricultural extension services, farmer productivity, and the sector's overall development.