Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) among National Agricultural Researchers in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

The effective utilization of scientific and technological findings is the main crux in achieving meaningful development. The advancement of agriculture depends on effective extension delivery which is fundamentally agricultural communication. This study examined the current state of the use of information and communication technologies by the national agricultural researchers in Southwest, Nigeria. A total of 150 researchers across selected research institutes in Southwest Nigeria were sampled for the study. However, only 119 research instruments were returned and used for data analysis. Findings reveal that majority (54.0%) had 1-5 years of research experience, 86.0% were the senior cadre officers, with an average age of 38 ± 4.5 years. While computer was mostly (93%) used among electronic ICT, print media, journal (87%) was mostly used among printed ICT. Computers (77.0%), Telephone (75.0%) were used on daily basis while Journals (87.0%) and Posters (49.0%) were only used when available. Respondents’ rank in the organizations (?2 = 6.8139, p = 0.0331) had a significant relationship with their use of ICTs for agricultural research and development while no significant relationship was established between the perceived importance of ICT and their use of ICTs for agricultural research and development. Well-funded ICTs department and infrastructure will promote
the use of ICTs among agricultural researchers.