Effect of Hybrid Extension Services on Agricultural Extension Workers’ Productivity in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the perceived effect of hybrid extension services on the productivity of agricultural extension workers in Ondo State, Nigeria A complete enumeration covering all 50 extension workers in the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) was done. Data were collected using a well-structured and validated questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive (frequency count, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential (Linear regression) statistics. Findings from the study showed that the workforce was predominantly female (56%), with a mean age of 47 years and an average of 18 years of experience. Results also revealed that the most used hybrid service components included integrated communication platforms such as WhatsApp platforms (=2.5), farmers’ contact/call centres (=2.36) and hybrid farmer field schools (=2.32). It was also observed that hybrid services were mainly applied in crop management (=3.48), pests and disease control (=3.32), post-harvest handling (=3.30), and technology adoption (= 3.26)., the extent of hybrid extension service delivery had a significant and positive influence on the extension workers’ productivity (β= 0.460; t = 8.507; p < 0.05). The study concluded that hybrid extension services enhance productivity but require improved ICT infrastructure, digital skills training, and supportive policies for sustainability. It was therefore recommended that hybrid extension services should be positioned as complementary rather than a substitute for traditional extension delivery.