Experts seek stronger extension systems, funding, inclusiveness

Stakeholders at the 2025 National Agricultural Extension Review and Planning Meeting have  outlined key recommendations to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural extension system, deepen research adoption and improve food security.

The experts, in a communiqué issued by the  Chairman, Dr. Habib Abubakar of the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) and members of the committee, emphasised the urgency of improving research–farmer linkages and equipping extension services to respond to climate change, digital transformation and rising national food demands.

According to the communiqué, research institutes should intensify efforts in developing new climate smart technologies and should be adequately disseminated to reach target farmers.”

The stakeholders also called for expanded digital inclusion in rural agriculture, stressing the need to increase internet access and strengthen the digital literacy of smallholder farmers to maximise the use of smartphones and other digital tools for agricultural purposes.

The communiqué further urged deliberate efforts to empower women, youths, and persons with disabilities by improving their access to land, credit, gender-sensitive technologies, and capacity-building opportunities.

It recommended that government employ more frontline extension agents and adopt complementary channels such as e-extension platforms and farm radio to bridge the wide extension-to-farmer ratio.

The document also highlighted funding gaps, stating that “adequate budgetary allocations and timely release of funds from relevant authorities and partners for agricultural research and extension services” are essential to sustaining innovation in the sector.

Other resolutions included strengthening farmer outreach systems to ensure technologies are disseminated and scaled effectively, instituting stricter regulatory measures to ensure subsidised inputs reach the intended beneficiaries, and prioritising infrastructural development for research institutions.

The communiqué also stressed the need for improved rural security to protect farmers and extension workers, given the ongoing challenges in many farming communities.

It however urged government agencies to prioritise professionalism in appointments and the delegation of responsibilities within the agricultural extension system.

The annual review meeting serves as a national platform for evaluating the performance of agricultural extension services and planning strategies for improved productivity and rural development.

The meeting, held from December 1st to 4th 2025, at the ultramodern hall of the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, brought together researchers, policymakers, development partners, and extension professionals from across the country.

Advertisement