Management of Extension Delivery for Improved Soybean Production Practices in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria

Soybean has emerged as a strategically important crop in North Central Nigeria, underpinning both domestic food industries and smallholder income diversification. In Kwara State, however, the management of extension delivery systems targeting soybean producers remains fragmented, limiting the uptake of improved agronomic practices. This study examined the management of extension delivery for improved soybean production practices in Kwara State. A structured survey of 65 extension agents and 70 soybean farmers from three local government areas was conducted. Data collected covered extension message content, delivery frequency, farmer knowledge uptake, and adoption of specific practices including inoculant use, row spacing, and post-harvest handling. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were applied. Results revealed that extension messages on inoculant application and grain drying practices had low penetration rates, with only 29 percent of farmers reporting awareness of inoculant benefits. Extension agents cited inadequate training updates and limited demonstration material budgets as management constraints. The proportion of farmers adopting at least three improved soybean practices was significantly higher in communities with organised commodity group-based extension delivery. The study recommends restructuring extension management in Kwara State to include commodity-focused advisory teams with dedicated logistical support. Regular technical refresher training for extension agents and farmer group formation incentives are also advocated. Keywords: extension management, soybean production, Kwara State, adoption, agronomic practices.