Agricultural Extension focuses on helping farmers and communities improve agricultural practices, increase productivity, and adopt modern farming techniques. This course plays an important role in the agricultural sector by training professionals who act as a link between agricultural researchers and farmers.
If you are interested in studying Agricultural Extension, several universities in Nigeria offer this program under various specializations. This article provides a detailed list of universities offering Agricultural Extension for the 2025/2026 academic session, admission requirements, and career opportunities.
What is Agricultural Extension?
Agricultural Extension is the study of how to provide farmers and rural communities with the knowledge and tools they need to improve their farming activities. It involves teaching modern farming techniques, organizing workshops, and implementing agricultural policies at the grassroots level.
Graduates of Agricultural Extension work closely with farmers to increase agricultural output and promote sustainability. They also contribute to rural development by introducing innovative solutions to agricultural challenges.
If you are interested in other agriculture-related courses, you can explore universities offering Agricultural Economics or Agronomy.
Why Study Agricultural Extension in Nigeria?
Agricultural Extension is particularly relevant in Nigeria due to the country’s dependence on agriculture as a source of livelihood for millions of people. Studying this course in Nigeria offers benefits such as:
- Contribution to Rural Development: Agricultural Extension equips graduates with skills to help rural communities improve farming practices.
- High Demand for Professionals: Governments and NGOs need trained agricultural extension workers to implement programs in rural areas.
- Affordable Education: Nigerian universities offering this program provide quality education at an affordable cost.
If you are also considering careers in teaching agriculture, you can check universities offering Agricultural Education.
List of Nigerian Universities Offering Agricultural Extension
Below is a list of universities in Nigeria offering Agricultural Extension or related programs for 2025/2026:
| University Name | Program Offered |
|---|---|
| Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) | Agricultural Extension |
| University of Nigeria (UNN) | Agricultural Extension |
| Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) | Agric Extension and Communication Technology |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | Agric Extension and Rural Sociology |
| Niger Delta University (NDU) | Agric Extension and Rural Sociology |
| National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) | Agric Extension and Management |
| Crawford University | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
| Landmark University | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
| Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
| Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB) | Agric Extension and Rural Development |
1. Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
FUTO offers Agricultural Extension with a focus on developing innovative agricultural techniques and bridging the gap between research and farming communities.
If you’re considering other programs in agriculture, FUTO also offers Agricultural Engineering.
2. University of Nigeria (UNN)
UNN’s Agricultural Extension program trains students to implement sustainable farming practices in rural areas. The university is known for its emphasis on research and community outreach.
3. Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
FUTA offers Agric Extension and Communication Technology, which combines agricultural training with effective communication strategies to help farmers adopt new technologies.
4. University of Ibadan (UI)
UI’s Agric Extension and Rural Development program focuses on improving agricultural practices in rural areas. The university is renowned for its commitment to agricultural research and development.
For students considering other agricultural fields, UI also offers Soil Science and Crop Science.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU offers Agric Extension and Rural Development with a curriculum designed to address the challenges faced by farmers in rural areas.
Admission Requirements for Agricultural Extension
To gain admission into Agricultural Extension programs in Nigeria, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- O’Level Results: Five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Agricultural Science or Biology, Chemistry, and one other relevant subject.
- JAMB UTME Subject Combination: English Language, Agricultural Science, Chemistry, and Biology or Physics.
- Post-UTME Screening: Candidates must meet the university’s cut-off mark and pass the screening process.
Check the JAMB subject combination for Agricultural Extension for more details.
Career Opportunities in Agricultural Extension
Graduates of Agricultural Extension have a wide range of career opportunities, including:
- Extension Services: Working with government agencies or NGOs to educate farmers.
- Research and Development: Conducting studies to improve farming techniques.
- Community Development: Assisting rural communities in adopting modern agricultural practices.
- Teaching: Educating future agricultural workers in secondary schools and colleges.
For those interested in other career paths in agriculture, consider Agricultural Economics or Animal Production.
FAQs
What is Agricultural Extension?
Agricultural Extension focuses on providing farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to improve their productivity and adopt modern farming methods.
Which university is best for Agricultural Extension in Nigeria?
Universities like the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Federal University of Technology Akure are among the best for Agricultural Extension.
Can I combine Agricultural Extension with other specializations?
Yes, many universities offer Agricultural Extension alongside Communication Technology, Rural Sociology, or Rural Development, allowing for specialization.
Conclusion
Agricultural Extension is a vital course for anyone passionate about improving farming practices and helping rural communities. With programs offered by top universities like FUTO, UI, and OAU, you’ll gain the skills needed to make a positive impact in the agricultural sector.
Choose a university that aligns with your goals, meet the admission requirements, and prepare for an exciting career in agriculture. Share this article with friends who might find it helpful!