Solomon Nwafor
Aims: The overall purpose of this study was to examine the agricultural marketing extension services’ needs of root and tuber crop farmers in Abia State. The specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of root and tuber crop farmers in Abia and to examine the marketing extension services’ needs of root and tuber crop farmers in the study area; ascertain marketing measures/suggestions to through which farmers’ needs can be satisfied.
Study design: This study employed public opinion survey
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Abia State, Nigeria between March 2017 and January 2018.
Methodology: Using the multistage sampling technique and a structured questionnaire as instrument, data for the study were collected from a sample of three hundred and eighty seven (387). Percentages, likerst-type scale and mean scores were used as statistical tools for data analysis
Results: The findings of the study showed that farmers are constantly in need of updated marketing extension services which include cooperatives (x ? = 2.49), credit (x ? = 2.47), information (x ? = 2.77), market linkage (x ? = 2.91), storage ((x ? = 2.97), processing ((x ? = 2.86),, transportation ((x ? = 2.63),, programme to expand consumption((x ? = 2.68) and grading and standardization services (x ? = 2.67). Therefore, for extension workers to really assist farmers in this regard, it is important to assess from the farmer‘s perspective in the areas in which assistance is needed for root and tuber produce marketing because programs or services can be effective only when they meet real needs
Conclusion: It was recommended that organizations and agencies providing marketing extension services (ADPs, Research institutes, Universities, NGOs etc) should do so in accordance to famers’ needs. Governments should develop, support and promote training in marketing skills and services for farmers in the study area.
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