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Abstract

This study used two widely read Nigerian newspapers (Punch and Guardian) to assess the extent of daily newspapers involvement in disseminating agricultural information. Samples of the newspapers between 2007 and 2010 were analysed for daily reportage, space allocation and types of stories published. All data collected were analysed using simple descriptive statistics. Results showed that 70%, 78.8%, 66.3% and 60% of the newspapers evaluated did not report any agricultural issues in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 respectively. Among those that reported agricultural issues, majority reported 1-2 stories per day representing 21.3%, 28.8%, 25% and 36% of total sample size in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 respectively. Mean column inch allocation were 27.43, 10.77, 35.89 and 27.52 for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 respectively. Total column inch allocation to the publication of agricultural issues in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 were 2194.29, 861.54, 2870.94 and 2201.52 respectively for all eighty (80) newspapers sampled in each year. Finally, except in 2008, the subject that attracted the highest reportage was health implications of the consumption of agricultural commodities. Judging by previous and current trends, the authors concluded that newspapers are not likely to make significant contribution to the dissemination of agricultural information for enhanced agricultural production.

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