Effectiveness of Extension Education as a Strategy for Poverty Reduction in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assesses the effectiveness of extension education as a strategy for poverty alleviation in Niger State, Nigeria. Poverty is a condition where individuals or communities lack the essentials required for a minimum standard of well-being and quality of life. The study evaluates the role of extension education in reducing poverty within Niger State. A descriptive survey research method was employed, involving 180 participants drawn from a population of 3,500 community leaders and extension workers across three randomly selected local government areas representing the state's three senatorial zones. Data were analysed using mean statistics, with findings revealing that all assessed items had mean values above 2.50. It confirms the effectiveness of extension education as a poverty reduction strategy. The study concludes that extension education significantly enhances agricultural productivity, job creation, better sales of farm products, and healthy family living. It recommends prioritising extension education services to improve agriculture, health, and home economics, fostering productivity and eradicating poverty.