Capability of Extension Agents in Disseminating Climate Change Information in Delta State Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the capability of extension agents in disseminating Climate Change (CC) information in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage procedure was used in selecting 60 respondents. Data were collected on respondents’ capacity for outreach to farmers; existence of linkage on CC and sources of information on CC, constraints to building capacities for outreach and strategies to strengthen capacities. Mean, percentage, were used for analysis. Findings showed the existence of training on CC (23.3%) and practical learning experience on CC adaptation (20.0%). Lack of human resources (𝑥̅= 3.30) and training programmes on CC (𝑥̅= 3.23) were constraints to building capacities for outreach. Organization of seminars, workshops (𝑥̅= 3.58), proper staffing (𝑥̅= 3.57), provision of incentives (𝑥̅= 3.55) were suggested as strategies to strengthen capacity for outreach. Extension agents in the state lack the requisite facilities for outreach to farmers on climate change agricultural adaptation. Also, there are inadequate human and material resources necessary for effective coverage of the farming population. Government and development organizations should hire qualified extension personnel and provide weather observatory for CC outreach in Delta State.