Mass Media Perception And Utilization For Accessing Agricultural Information Among Farmers In Ogoja Agricultural Zone, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study focused on mass media perception and utilization for accessing agricultural information among farmers in Ogoja agricultural zone, Cross River State, Nigeria. The study specifically identified agricultural information needs of the farmers, ascertained the mass media available in the area, determined the extent of utilization of mass media by farmers, and established the relationship between mass media perception and utilization by farmers in the area. The study was conducted in Ogoja agricultural zone, the population consisted of all the registered farmers in the area, and the 3 extension blocks used, namely Ogoja, Obudu and Yala were randomly selected. The sample comprised 200 randomly selected respondents. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using percentages, mean, standard deviation, ranking and chi square statistics. The results revealed that farmers needs information on herbicides/pesticides (ranked = 1st), transportation (ranked = 2nd) and credit facilities (ranked = 3rd) etc. The predominant mass media available were mobile phone (ranked = 1st), television (ranked 2nd) and radio (ranked = 3rd) were the most extensively utilized in the area. The study found a significant relationship between mass media perception and utilization by the farmers. A comprehensive internet network coverage in the area and ICT training were recommended among others, to enhance mass media utilization.