LEADERSHIP AND SELF-HELP GROUPS IN NIGERIA - IMPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION

Abstract

This study was conducted in Nigeria´s Delta Central Agricultural Zone to determine the effectiveness of the leadership of farmers' self-help groups. Seven of the 27 registered farmers groups were randomly selected. Ten percent of the members of each selected group were also randomly selected, resulting in 68 respondents. Primary data were collected with the use of questionnaires and direct interview, while secondary data were collected from the records of the selected farmers' groups. Data were subjected to statistical analysis by using mean derived from 4-point Likert-type scale, frequency counts and percentages. The hypotheses were addressed with the use of Spearman's rank order correlation. Leadership was rated low in qualities of leaders although the leaders have been found to be fairly effective for some aspects: creating access to credit, organizing groups for price determination and direct sale of produce to consumers. The members' participation in meetings was irregular. The implication for extension delivery service is that regular training should be organized for the leadership of farmers groups.