Influence of Agricultural Extension Services on Honey Production Efficiency among Beekeepers in Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria

This study examined the influence of agricultural extension services on honey production efficiency among beekeepers in Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting 283 beekeepers selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC), and Likert scale analysis. Findings revealed that (57.6%) of beekeepers had contact with extension agents, but the mean frequency of visits was low (2.1 visits/year), and only (39.6%) participated in extension training. The perceived quality of extension services was moderate (mean = 2.8), while access to inputs or credit through extension linkages was limited (17%). Multiple regression results indicated that extension contact (β = 0.214, p < 0.01), extension service quality (β = 0.487, p < 0.01), education (β = 0.056, p < 0.05), farm size (β = 0.012, p < 0.05), access to credit (β = 0.431, p < 0.01), and membership in beekeepers’ associations (β = 0.172, p < 0.01) significantly influenced the adoption of improved beekeeping practices. Correlation analysis showed a positive and significant relationship between extension service utilization and honey production efficiency (r = 0.682, p = 0.001). Key constraints limiting effective extension delivery included lack of modern beekeeping equipment, inadequate capital, and insufficient extension support. The study concluded that agricultural extension services play a crucial role in enhancing honey production efficiency, but limited access, low intensity of contact, and resource constraints hinder their full impact. It is recommended that extension agencies strengthen training, improve service quality, facilitate access to modern equipment and credit, and promote cooperative membership to boost honey productivity and rural livelihoods.