A probe into agricultural knowledge and information sharing among irrigation farmers in North-Western Nigeria: Context and issues

Abstract

In the contemporary age, information and knowledge sharing is a key ingredient to competitive and dynamic agriculture. Especially in environments where farming is principally informed by irrigation, turbulent agricultural markets, effervescent information sharing amongst the farmers becomes a huge source of competitive advantage and innovation. The study was done in North-Western Nigeria especially focusing on Katsina, Kano, and Zamfara states. Sampling a total of 365 irrigation farmers, extension workers, academic staff members, information gatekeepers, and staff from the Ministry of Agriculture as well as staff from the irrigation scheme, the study used both theoretical and methodological triangulation. Principally, the study was hinged on the Agricultural Knowledge and Information Support System (AKISS). The study explored the different contextual challenges impacting agriculture knowledge and information sharing practices. A conceptual framework proposed upon the AKISS articulates what needs to be put in place to mitigate the identified gaps.