Extension Workers’ Use of Motivation Measures for Agripreneurial Engagements with Rural Dwellers in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed extension workers (EWs) use of motivation measures (MMs) for agripreneurial activities (AAs) among rural dwellers (RDs). The population study involved 63 EWs in the Edo State Agricultural Development Programme (ESADP) zones. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentages and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Results show that EWs highly engaged RDs in poultry ( 3.61), arable crops ( 2.91) and tree crops ( 2.90) production. The extension methods used to engage RDs were farm and home visits ( 3.89), group training (2.79) demonstration (2.52) and ICT/phone ( 2.50). The strategies employed included cooperative-based trainings ( 3.30), facilitation of multi-actor partnerships and linkages ( 2.69).  The most frequently used motivation measures by EWs included the provision of social and emotional support (3.42), recognition of good performance (3.33), and supervision of RDs' activities (3.08). EWs were challenged by inadequate social and emotional skills ( 3.36), low technical skills in some agriculture enterprises ( 3.04). Significant positive relationships existed between age (r=0.216; p=0.019), working experience (r=0.176; p=0.046), monthly salary (r=0.222; p=0.016) and EWs’ use of MMs among RDs for AAs. Older, more experienced, and higher-income EWs used MMs more. Continuous training in social and technical skills and motivation of EWs are recommended.