Training Needs Assessment for Horticultural Extension Agents in Niger State

Horticultural extension agents serve as the primary link between research-generated technologies and smallholder vegetable and fruit farmers in North Central Nigeria. However, deficits in technical competence and professional training among extension agents in Niger State have been identified as a major constraint to the effective dissemination of improved horticultural practices. This study conducts a training needs assessment for horticultural extension agents employed by the Niger State Agricultural Development Program, covering agronomic knowledge gaps, post-harvest technology skills, irrigation management, and use of digital tools for extension delivery. A structured self-assessment questionnaire was administered to 60 extension agents across six agricultural zones of Niger State, supplemented by supervisor ratings and focus group discussions. Borich needs assessment model was used to prioritize training needs. Results indicate that post-harvest handling, greenhouse management, and use of ICT-based extension platforms were identified as the highest priority training areas. Over 70 percent of extension agents reported no formal training in horticultural crop-specific agronomy within the past three years. The study recommends the development of a competency-based horticultural extension training curriculum and the establishment of a refresher training program for Niger State ADP extension staff. Keywords: training needs assessment, extension agents, horticultural extension, Niger State, competency gap