Improving Farmers’ Efficiency in Rice Production In Nigeria: The Relevance of Agricultural Extension

Abstract

This paper assesses the effects of extension services on farmers' efficiency and productivity in rice production in Kano State, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected from 126 rice farmers selected using multi stage sampling technique. Stochastic production frontier function was estimated to ascertain the effects of extension services on increasing efficiency and productivity in rice production. In addition to raising farmers' efficiency and increasing potential output, farmer access to extension services significantly (p<0.01) reduces production inefficiencies and yield losses. It is recommended that farmers' accessibility to agricultural extension should be enhanced. Also, provision of effective extension services to farmers should be highly considered in the current agricultural transformation programmes.