Access and Use of Information and Communication Technologies by Extension Workers in Anambra State Agricultural Development Programme, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined access and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in Anambra State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). A multi stage sampling technique was used in selecting respondents from the zones, blocks and circles. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 69 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis and simple linear regression. Mobile phone (x = 3.42 ) was highly accessible to extension workers. Also, mobile phone was available in ADP office and very often used. Factors that militated against extension workers’ access and use of ICTs were: poor ICT skills, inadequate support by organization and government and high cost of maintenance of ICT tools. The number of ICTs owned showed significant influence on level of ICTs utilization among extension workers. Access and use of ICT in Anambra State ADP was relatively low and there is need for an intervention by governments and non-governmental organizations. Keywords : ICT access and use, Anambra State ADP