Abstract

Yusuf Babangida Lawal

The role/contributions of Agricultural Extension (AE), Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and information sharing systems have been evaluated in Nigeria. The survey utilized one thousand (1,000) wellstructured and manually self-filled questionnaires administered in ten selected States of Nigeria. This is in addition to specific online tools for interview such as email conversations, text messages and phone calls. The research proved that, enhancing information sharing between Agricultural Research Institutions, Agricultural Extension Organizations and farmers/other agro-entrepreneurs is an effective solution to such problems as low productivity/income, weak marketing linkages, poor information management, etc. The research also highlighted the methods to enhance and maintain networking/information sharing for the overall growth of the agriculture sector in Nigeria. These methods include implementation of Social Networking Service (SNS) in agriculture, creation of agribusiness mobile applications and bulk SMS systems, effective Cloud Computing/Storages usage in agriculture, modern methods of synergy between Agricultural Research Institutions and Extension organizations, etc. The survey also found out that, sharing of agribusiness information on radio, television, newspapers, fliers and DVDs as well as publication of research books and papers at open/free access journals is very effective and important to Agro-entrepreneurs, students, researches and extension organizations for the successful adoptions of research technology outcomes in the country.