ABSTRACT
This study assesses the factors influencing farmers' trust in agricultural extension agents in Uyo Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria. Trust is a vital component in the relationship between farmers and extension agents, as it directly impacts the effectiveness of agricultural advisory services and the adoption of new farming practices. The study identifies key factors such as communication effectiveness, extension agents' technical expertise, reliability, empathy, and the consistency of visits as crucial determinants of trust. Other important factors include socio-cultural similarities, transparency in delivering information, and the agents' ability to understand the local context of farmers’ challenges.
A mixed-methods approach, involving both qualitative and quantitative research, was adopted to provide a comprehensive understanding of these factors. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews administered to a sample of farmers in Uyo LGA. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis, while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The findings indicate that farmers are more likely to trust extension agents who demonstrate high technical knowledge, communicate clearly and regularly, and show a genuine interest in their welfare. Socio-cultural alignment between the agents and the farmers also emerged as a significant factor, as farmers tend to trust agents who share similar cultural backgrounds and values.
The study also highlights the role of government support and institutional frameworks in strengthening or undermining this trust. Where extension agents are adequately supported with resources and training, trust levels tend to be higher. Conversely, inconsistencies in service delivery, lack of follow-up, and perceived favoritism were identified as factors that negatively affect trust.
The results of this study have important implications for agricultural policy and the development of effective extension services. Recommendations include improving the training and capacity-building of extension agents, fostering continuous engagement with farmers, and ensuring that extension services are culturally sensitive and tailored to local needs. By enhancing these factors, agricultural extension services in Uyo LGA can build stronger trust relationships with farmers, leading to improved agricultural productivity and rural development.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS. v
CHAPTER ONE. 1
INTRODUCTION. 1
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 5
1.4 Research Questions. 6
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 6
1.6 Significance of the Study. 6
1.7 Scope of the Study. 7
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 7
1.9 Organization of the Study. 8
1.10 Definition of Terms. 9
CHAPTER TWO.. 12
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE. 12
2.1 Introduction. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Social Exchange Theory. 12
2.2.2 Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) 13
2.2.3 Expectancy Theory. 13
2.2.4 Communication Privacy Management (CPM) Theory. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.3.1 Overview.. 14
2.3.2 Theoretical Framework. 14
2.3.3 Communication and Interaction. 15
2.3.4 Professional Competence. 15
2.3.5 Integrity and Honesty. 15
2.3.6 Responsiveness and Support 16
2.3.7 Social and Cultural Factors. 16
2.3.8 Training and Development 16
2.3.9 Institutional Support 17
2.3.10 Farmers' Prior Experiences. 17
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
CHAPTER THREE. 21
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. 21
3.1 Introduction. 21
3.2 Research Design. 21
3.3 Area of Study. 22
3.4 Population of the Study. 22
3.5 Sample Size and Sampling Technique. 22
3.6 Instrument for Data Collection. 23
3.7 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument 23
3.8 Method of Data Collection. 24
3.9 Data Analysis Techniques. 24
3.10 Ethical Considerations. 25
3.11 Limitations of the Study. 25
CHAPTER FOUR. 27
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION. 27
4.1 Preamble. 27
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 27
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 33
4.4 Testing Hypothesis. 46
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 49
CHAPTER FIVE. 52
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 52
5.1 Summary Of Findings. 52
5.2 Conclusion. 53
5.3 Recommendations. 54
REFERENCES. 56
APPENDICES. 59
APPENDIX I: RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRE. 59
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Nigeria's economic development is traditionally viewed as heavily dependent on agriculture, whose expansion is closely linked to the country's economic past. Because agriculture can contribute greatly to the advancement of industry, it is the foundation of the country's overall economic development goals. This is based on the experiences of a number of industrialized nations where agriculture has evolved from its original function of food and fiber production to a major driver of industrialization and more significant economic change (Humbert, 2000). Early after Nigeria's independence, economic planning and development relied heavily on agriculture. Some experts referred to the Nigerian economy as an agrarian economy due to its heavy dependence on the agricultural sector (Ogen, 2003).
Despite the challenges that the agricultural sector has faced, it remains the backbone of the Nigerian economy thanks to the slow growth of food production and modern agricultural methods. Agriculture continues to have a major impact on the national economy, particularly at the subsistence level, and offers diverse business opportunities. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (2006), a significant percentage of the population still depends on agriculture as a primary source of income and employment, and many Nigerians rely on it for both.
Moreso, the adoption of modern agricultural techniques and technologies is directly linked to Nigeria's growing agricultural productivity. To increase production, science-based farming approaches must replace traditional farming methods. To achieve this, farmers must have the expertise to apply these cutting-edge techniques. In this environment, the value of agricultural education, particularly non-formal or post-secondary education, cannot be overstated. According to Anaeto et al. (2012), Nigeria can significantly improve the overall living standards of its farming communities by training farmers and providing them with the resources they need to transition from conventional to more sustainable agricultural practices. Improving the sector's production, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting income convergence and sustainability over time all depend on agricultural expansion and productivity improvement (Umar & Mahmood, 2007).
In this regard, the role of agricultural extension services becomes indispensable. Extension services act as a bridge between scientific knowledge and agricultural communities, ensuring farmers are aware of and able to adopt best practices. These services provide farmers with access to essential knowledge, technical skills and resources that can transform their farming practices.
Therefore, according to Ani (2007), efficient extension services are essential to increase farmers' income and improve agricultural practices, especially in developing countries such as Nigeria. Agricultural extension agents play an important role in this process as intermediaries, promoting the spread of agricultural innovations and increasing farmers' productivity and financial well-being. However, the level of farmers' trust in these funds has a major impact on the effectiveness of these services.
Understanding the factors that influence this trust is critical to improving the effectiveness of agricultural extension programs. This review addresses the diverse elements that shape farmers' trust in advisors in Nigeria, drawing on current research and case studies to provide a comprehensive analysis. Several factors contribute to the trust dynamic between farmers and advisors.
Farmers' trust is often influenced by the perceived competence and reliability of advisors, which is closely related to their expertise and ability to successfully meet farmers' needs, asserts Ijeoma et al. (2022). Furthermore, Ojo and Adeoti (2023) emphasize the importance of interpersonal relationships and communication styles, emphasizing that agents who communicate regularly and transparently have a higher chance of gaining farmers' trust.
Economic incentives and support systems are also crucial factors for trust. According to a study by Yusuf and Adeyemo (2021), farmers' trust tends to increase when extension agents offer tangible benefits such as subsidies or access to resources. In addition, the impact of socio-cultural factors cannot be overlooked. According to Nwachukwu et al. (2022), farmers' perception and trust in advisors are significantly influenced by social networks and cultural norms. Moreso, an important factor in building and maintaining trust is the honesty and moral attitude of the advisor. Eze and Ogbonna (2023) emphasize that farmers are more likely to trust agents who demonstrate honesty and commitment to their welfare. Finally, the organizational support of extension agents, which includes training and resources, has a direct impact on farmers' trust. According to a study by Adebayo et al. (2024), agents who receive a lot of support can better strengthen farmers' confidence.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
In Nigeria, agricultural extension services are essential for improving farming practices and boosting agricultural productivity. However, the effectiveness of these services is contingent upon the trust that farmers place in extension agents. Despite the critical role of trust in the adoption of agricultural innovations, there is a notable gap in understanding the specific factors that influence this trust. Recent studies indicate that while some factors such as the perceived competence of extension agents and the quality of communication significantly impact trust, other variables like socio-cultural influences and economic incentives also play crucial roles (Ijeoma et al., 2022). This lack of comprehensive understanding hampers the development of targeted strategies to enhance trust and, consequently, the effectiveness of extension services.
Furthermore, the interplay between these factors is complex and context-dependent, often varying across different regions and farming communities in Nigeria. Ojo and Adeoti (2023) highlight that communication patterns and the ethical conduct of extension agents are critical but frequently overlooked aspects that impact trust. Without a thorough assessment of these influencing factors, policymakers and extension service providers may struggle to address the underlying issues affecting trust. This gap in knowledge necessitates a detailed exploration of the diverse elements shaping farmers' trust in extension agents to improve the design and implementation of extension services in Nigeria.
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine an assessment of the factors that influence farmers trust in agricultural extension agents in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To identify the key factors that influence farmers' trust in agricultural extension agents in Nigeria.
- To assess the relationship between farmers' trust in extension agents and their adoption of agricultural innovations.
- 3. To explore the impact of extension agents' communication strategies on farmers' trust.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What are the primary factors that influence farmers' trust in agricultural extension agents in Nigeria?
- Is there a significant correlation between farmers' trust in extension agents and their adoption of agricultural innovations?
- How do extension agents' communication strategies, such as the use of local language, face-to-face interactions, and demonstrations, impact farmers' trust?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no significant relationship between the factors influencing farmers' trust and their level of trust in agricultural extension agents in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Agric Extension sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Uyo LGA. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Agricultural Extension Agents (AEAs)
Professionals who provide farmers with educational services and practical advice on modern farming techniques, crop management, pest control, soil health, and other agricultural practices. Their goal is to enhance agricultural productivity and improve the livelihoods of farmers.
2. Trust
The firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. In this context, it refers to farmers' confidence in the integrity, expertise, and support provided by agricultural extension agents.
3. Factors Influencing Trust
The various elements or conditions that affect how trust is established or maintained. These can include the agent's professionalism, communication skills, past experiences, perceived competence, and the quality of advice provided.
4. Farmers
Individuals engaged in agricultural activities, including crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and other farming practices. They rely on extension services to enhance their productivity and sustainability in agriculture.
5. Extension Services
The programs and activities offered by agricultural extension agents designed to educate and support farmers. These services include training sessions, demonstrations, technical advice, and updates on best practices.
6. Professionalism
The conduct, behavior, and attitude of an agricultural extension agent that reflect their adherence to professional standards and ethical practices. This includes their knowledge, skills, and how they interact with farmers.
7. Perceived Competence
The extent to which farmers believe that an agricultural extension agent has the necessary knowledge, skills, and expertise to provide effective and reliable advice and support.
