Agricultural Extension Systems in West Africa: Adoptable Strategies for Nigeria’s Agricultural Extension Reform Agenda

Abstract

National agricultural extension and advisory systems have undergone major changes during the past two decades. These changes have been attributed to the success of the Green Revolution, commercialisation of agriculture and trade liberalization. In addition, transnational corporations develop a wide range of new technologies, which directly impact on agricultural production in developed and developing countries. As more and more production technologies become “private goods” and as an increasing percentage of farmers become commercialized producers, advisory services associated with these specialized technology transfer become progressively sophisticated to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness. This necessitates a policy reform that can accommodate the current scenario in the Nigerian quest for rural development. This paper examines the agricultural extension systems in some West African countries for possible adaptation and adoption in Nigeria’s agricultural extension policy reform. Key words: Agricultural extension systems, local development planning, reform agenda.