Assessment of Agro-Input Dealer Service Quality and Farmer Satisfaction in Delta State, South South Nigeria

Agro-input dealers are critical intermediaries in the agricultural input supply chain, and their service quality directly influences farmer access to quality inputs and timely technical advice. In Delta State, the agro-input market has expanded significantly, but concerns about counterfeit products and inadequate dealer advisory capacity persist. This study assessed agro-input dealer service quality and farmer satisfaction in Delta State. Fifty-five licensed agro-input dealers and 80 farmer clients from four local government areas were surveyed using structured questionnaires and observation checklists. Data covered input authenticity verification practices, dealer technical knowledge, pricing transparency, credit provision, and after-sales advisory support. A service quality index adapted from the SERVQUAL model was applied. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to identify predictors of farmer satisfaction. Results revealed that product authenticity assurance, knowledgeable recommendations, and fair pricing were the strongest drivers of farmer satisfaction. Approximately 38 percent of farmers reported having purchased inputs that proved substandard or counterfeit. Dealers with formal agronomic training or regular engagement with extension services received significantly higher service quality scores. The study recommends strengthening the agro-dealer licensing and inspection regime in Delta State. Mandatory dealer capacity development programmes should be integrated into the state's agricultural input commercialisation framework. Keywords: agro-input dealers, service quality, farmer satisfaction, Delta State, input markets.