Comparative Performance Evaluation of the Agricultural Development Programmes of Abia and Enugu States, Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study conducted a comparative performance evaluation of Agricultural Development Programmes (ADPs) of Abia and Enugu states, Nigeria; with particular focus on extension services delivery in the study areas between 2006-2008. The specific objectives of the study included to compare the performance of the project in the two states with respect to extension service delivery. A hypothesis was postulated and tested in this study. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 200 respondents made up the sample size of 40 extension staff and 60 farmers from each state. Data were obtained from both primary and secondary sources with two sets of structured questionnaire and from ADP Planning Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) annual records. The data were analyzed using percentages and paired t-test. Analysis of the Hypothesis showed that out of the 11 extension performance indices measured in the two States ADPs, three showed significant difference at 5% in the performance of Abia and Enugu states ADPs. They are number of extension agents (6.676**), farm visits (5.984**) and monthly review meetings (MTRM) (4.588**). In view of this result, the study therefore recommended that government should make haste to employ more well trained extension staff to enhance extension service delivery in Enugu State. This will speedily revive and sustain grassroots’ agricultural production and rural development in the state.