By Simeon Shodimu
In Nigeria’s quest to strengthen food security, attention is increasingly shifting from policies and funding to a less visible but decisive factor—human behaviour. Experts warn that without strong professional ethics among those driving agricultural research and extension, even the best-designed interventions may fail to reach farmers effectively.
At a time when Nigeria is grappling with food insecurity and the urgent need to boost agricultural productivity, a leading academic has drawn attention to a critical but often overlooked challenge: the declining standard of professionalism within the agricultural ecosystem.
Speaking at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. C.O.N. Ikeobi, warned that poor work ethics among agricultural professionals could significantly undermine national food security efforts.
Delivering a presentation titled “AMREC Work Ethics: Building a Strong Foundation for Success,” Ikeobi stressed that beyond technical expertise, the success of agricultural development hinges on discipline, integrity, and accountability—values he described as the “internal compass” guiding professionals, especially in the absence of supervision.
At the heart of his concern is the performance of the Agricultural Media Resources and Extension Centre, FUNAAB’s outreach arm responsible for bridging the gap between research institutions and rural farmers. According to him, any lapse in professionalism within such a critical institution could have far-reaching consequences.
In practical terms, Ikeobi explained, delays in disseminating vital information—such as pest control measures or climate advisories—can translate directly into crop losses and reduced farmer incomes. “Reliability and timeliness are not optional; they are essential,” he noted, underscoring the fragile link between research outputs and field-level impact.
He painted a picture of a workforce operating under pressure—limited resources, difficult terrains, and tight production schedules—yet insisted that only a strong ethical foundation can enable staff to navigate these constraints effectively. For him, professionalism is not merely about skills, but about consistency, responsibility, and a proactive mindset.
The professor outlined key values expected of extension workers: punctuality, honesty, teamwork, continuous learning, and a strong sense of ownership. He cautioned against complacency and stressed the importance of initiative, particularly in environments where supervision may be minimal.
Of particular concern, Ikeobi highlighted what he termed “toxic competence”—a scenario where highly skilled individuals lack integrity or discipline. Such individuals, he warned, can erode team cohesion, damage institutional credibility, and ultimately weaken service delivery.
“Attitude determines altitude,” he remarked, reinforcing the idea that mindset often outweighs technical ability in determining success. In his view, organisations that cultivate ethical behaviour are not only more productive but also better positioned to innovate and deliver sustainable solutions.
To address these challenges, Ikeobi advocated a shift in management approach—from rigid supervision to coaching-based leadership. He called for clearer goal-setting, continuous staff development, and regular feedback systems, alongside fairness in enforcing organisational rules. Selective discipline, he warned, can quickly erode trust and morale.
“The soil of success is work ethic,” he declared, urging staff to see themselves not merely as employees, but as vital contributors to national development, particularly in supporting farmers across Ogun State and beyond.
Earlier, Director of AMREC, Prof. Olalekan Jacob Olaoye, reinforced the centre’s strategic role at the intersection of research, communication, and community engagement. He noted that Nigeria’s agricultural sector faces complex challenges—from climate variability and post-harvest losses to the growing demand for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture systems.
According to Olaoye, addressing these issues requires more than traditional methods. He called for a transition toward modern extension models, including digital platforms, participatory approaches, and value chain-driven interventions.
“The strength of any extension system lies in its ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver measurable impact,” he said, emphasising the need for a responsive, knowledge-driven framework.
As Nigeria continues its push toward agricultural transformation, the message from experts is clear: without professionalism at the core of its institutions, the journey to food security may remain uncertain.
