INFLUENCE OF RADIO NIGER IN PROMOTING THE USE OF IMPROVED SEED VARIETY BY NIGER STATE FARMERS

Abstract

This study aims to unveil influence of radio Niger in promoting the use of improved seed variety by Niger state farmers. 150 farmers in Rafi local government formed the sample for the study after they were conveniently chosen by the researcher. The study rode on social responsibility theory of the media and it was discovered that majority of the farmers in the study area listen to Radio Niger news and programmes but little attention was paid in creating awareness, knowledge and the use of improved seed variety among the famers. It was also discovered that farmers don’t receive up-to-date information on agricultural practices which is very essential to farmers in the grassroots. The radio programme on agriculture were not effective to imbibe the use of bolting, boot stage, bulk seed, centerfield seed, companion crop etc. to aid multitude agricultural output. The study concluded that Radio Niger can excellently discharge its responsibility by exposing the famers on relevance of improved seed variety and how the adoption of this modern farming can increase crop outputs. The study however recommended that gatekeepers of Radio Niger should promote consistent transmission of agricultural programme on the use of improved seed variety among farmers in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State.