ACCESS TO EXTENSION SERVICES IN TOMATO PRODUCTION AMONG FARMERS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
Publication Type: Journal Article.
Publication Year: 2026
Author(s): Adara C.T; Rachael Iyabo Awoyinka; Amelia Akarandut Roland; Daniel Akinola Babalola; Osagie John Afodu; Ibukunoluwa Adenike Akintunde; Lukman Abiodun Akinbile and Adeyinka Oye Akintunde
Journal Name: (IJAEMD)
ABSTRACT
This study examined the relationship between access to agricultural extension services and reductions in post-harvest losses in tomato production among farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed farmers’ access to extension services, identified perceived challenges and barriers to access, and compared the quantity of post-harvest tomato losses between farmers with and without access to extension services during the most recent production season. Primary data were collected from 95 respondents using structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. A multistage sampling technique involving purposive and simple random sampling was employed. Data were analyzed using
descriptive statistics and inferential tools, including a t-test. The results indicate that access
to extension services influenced the reduction of post-harvest losses among farmers with
access. Male farmers dominated tomato production (63.3%), while 36.8% were female.
Most respondents (41.1%) were aged 31-50 years, and 57.9% had at least 11 years of
farming experience. Educational attainment was generally low, with 36.8% having primary
education as the highest level achieved. Although respondents were aware of extension
services and their benefits, participation in post-harvest management training was limited.
Pest and disease infestation emerged as the major contributors to post-harvest tomato losses
in the study area. The study underscores the need to strengthen extension service delivery,
particularly in post-harvest handling and management, to enhance tomato productivity and
reduce losses.
Keywords: Agricultural extension services; post-harvest losses; Tomato production;
Farmers; Ogun State; Nigeria