International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The agricultural sector was the mainstream of Nigerian economy before the discovery of oil in the early 1956 resulting to a shift to dependency on oil. The Anambra state government, in a bid to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in the state, recently distributed high-quality oil palm and coconut seedlings to residents across the state. However, the actual impact of the radio messages in disseminating information about this programme remains uncertain.
Objective: The research evaluated residents’ response to the state governments’ radio messages on the oil palm and coconut seedlings agricultural development programme in Anambra state Nigeria.
Method: The descriptive survey method was adopted, using a sample population of 400 residents engaged in oil palm and coconut cultivation in Anambra State, to gain a comprehensive understanding of their experiences.
Result: Data collected revealed that Anambra state government’s radio messages on oil palm and coconut seedlings have enhanced residents’ knowledge, influencing their perceptions and driving the adoption of the sustainable agricultural practices.
Conclusion: The study concludes that the Oil Palm and Coconut Seedlings Agricultural Development Programme have been highly effective in reaching, informing, and motivating Anambra residents. The high frequency of exposure, positive perceptions of relevance, adoption and satisfaction with outcomes and the willingness to continue and recommend the practices indicate that the programme is fostering long-term agricultural development and sustainability in the region. This could be attributed to the frequency of the messages and the practical benefits of the programme.
Unique Contribution: This study shows how radio messages shape Anambra residents’ awareness, knowledge and adoption of sustainable farming practices. It offers useful insights for policymakers and agricultural stakeholders in improving advocacy and programme implementation. Key Recommendations: The study recommends that the Anambra State government sustain annual radio programmes on oil palm and coconut farming, tailoring messages with local languages and participants’ testimonials, and establish help centres or hotlines with follow-up radio sessions to provide guidance, feedback and reinforce adoption of the programme.