Communication Strategies for Maize Dissemination among farmers in South West, Nigeria: The Problems and the Prospect

Abstract

This study evaluated the problems and prospects associated with communication strategies for maize dissemination among rural farmers in southwestern Nigeria. The study was carried out in Oyo and Ogun States. Multistage sampling technique was used to sample 202 maize farmers in the area. Using quasi experimental research design, maize production information were disseminated to two groups of farmers separately using different medium and data was collected on associated constraints to understanding messages from the medium utilized for dissemination. Result shows that poor interactivity was a major challenge to understanding messages from conventional media while constraints for non-conventional method was centered on the individual carrying the message. The result shows no significant difference (t-0.114; p – 0.910) in the constraints identified by the two groups of farmers. Extension practitioners should make seed dropping and mobile phone use for maize dissemination more interactive. Also, radio and community leaders' forum should be strategically introduced as part of the communication strategies for effective dissemination.