DU JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT & SOCIAL SCIENCES

• G. U Uwana

  University of Benin

  Author

• T.F Ojo

  Obafemi Awolowo University

  Author

• O. N. Patrick-Ezaga

  University of Benin

  Author

Agriculture plays a central role in Nigeria’s economy, with catfish farming emerging as a major commercial aquaculture enterprise. However, inefficiencies persist within the catfish value chain due to communication gaps among farmers, hatchers, marketers, and processors. This study examined the effectiveness of communication between farmers and other value chain actors in the Edo South Agricultural Zone. A cross-sectional survey of 150 purposively selected catfish farmers was conducted using an interview schedule. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Results showed that communication effectiveness between farmers and other value chain actors was generally moderate, with information often conveyed clearly between farmers and hatchers (M = 2.51), marketers (M = 2.69), and processors (M = 2.82). Major communication barriers included technical difficulties (M = 2.26, 2.74, and 2.63) and poor mobile network access (M = 2.25, 2.47, and 2.45) in interactions with hatchers, marketers, and processors, respectively. One-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences in communication effectiveness across the three actor groups (F = 2.28, p = 0.109). The study concludes that communication between catfish farmers and other value chain actors is moderately effective. It recommends strengthening communication systems through farmer groups, development organisations, and extension service providers to improve information exchange and overall value chain performance.

1. G. U Uwana, University of Benin

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin

2. T.F Ojo, Obafemi Awolowo University

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

3. O. N. Patrick-Ezaga, University of Benin

   Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin

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