Abstract:
This study focused on the analysis of the extension needs of yam farmers for increased
productivity in Rivers and Imo States. The specific objectives were to: i) describe the socioeconomic characteristics of yam farmers in Rivers and Imo states, ii) find out the factors that will
increase yam productivity in the areas. Descriptive survey design was used to examine the cross
section of the population. A total of 587 respondents were selected from 18 LGAs in Rivers and
Imo States, through proportionate random sampling technique and used in this study. Primary
data obtained through structured questionnaire were analyzed, using percentage, arithmetic
means and weighted mean scores. Ordinary Least Square Regression Analysis and z-Test were
used for test of significance. The findings showed that majority of the farmers in the study areas
were male (61%), who were middle adult (46 years old), married men (60.8%) and were more of
part-time (58%). It indicated a mean annual income of N150,835.00 for the farmers in the areas
of study and once per month contact with extension agents (27.1%) was dominant in the areas. It
also showed that dedicated extension agents (M = 3.76), accessible credit facilities (M = 3.63),
and introduction of non stake yam varieties (M = 3.48) among others will increase yam
productivity in the areas. The study therefore recommended among others that: 1) The youths
should be encouraged and armed financially to meaningfully engage in yam production by the
state governments. 2) Only qualified and dedicated extension agents should be employed to
handle technical extension services especially in yam production in these states. 3) Special but
accessible credit facilities should be given to yam farmers on-the-farm only, in these two states
and the mechanism for its use be assigned to agro extension professionals
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