The role of agricultural extension workers in transforming agricultural supply chains: enhancing innovation, technology adoption, and ethical practices in Nigeria
1 Supply Chain and Operations Management, Independent Researcher, Chicago IL, USA.
2 Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria.
3 Department of Plant Biology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 23(03), 2585–2602
Publication history:
Received on 14 August 2024; revised on 24 September 2024; accepted on 26 September 2024
Abstract:
Agricultural extension workers play a pivotal role in transforming supply chains by bridging the gap between research, innovation, and on-the-ground farming practices. In Nigeria, where agriculture serves as a backbone for economic development and food security, the adoption of modern technologies and ethical farming practices remains critical. This article explores how agricultural extension workers contribute to enhancing productivity, promoting sustainability, and encouraging the diffusion of innovative technologies within Nigeria's agricultural sector. By serving as catalysts for the adoption of advanced tools such as precision agriculture, mobile-based information systems, and climate-smart practices, extension workers help improve efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure farmers’ access to markets. The study highlights the challenges faced by these workers, including resource constraints, technological barriers, and policy limitations. Furthermore, the article delves into the ethical dimensions of farming, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices. Through case studies and a detailed examination of Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, this paper provides insights into the future direction of agricultural extension services and their role in ensuring food security and rural development. The article concludes with policy recommendations to strengthen extension services and their capacity to drive innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s agriculture sector.
Keywords:
Agricultural Extension Services; Technology Adoption; Ethical Farming Practices; Innovation Diffusion; Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector; Sustainable Agriculture
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Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0