Research – Extension – Farmers – Input –
Linkage – System (REFILS) is a strategy of the
Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure
effective agricultural research, extension and
input delivery services for farmers in the
country. This study was conducted to determine
the extent of gender involvement in the
implementation of REFILS for effective
agricultural transformation in southeast agroecological
zone of Nigeria. By random sampling
a total of 480 farmers (240 males and 240
females) were selected from five states from the
zone. Data were collected with the aid of
interview schedule and were analysed using
descriptive statistical tools and T–test. Results
revealed that the system was not gender
sensitive as more of the male farmers than the
females were involved in all the activities
evaluated. Furthermore the results of the T–test
indicated significant difference between the
level of involvement of the males and females to
the favour of males. It was recommended that
gender issue should be given due consideration
at every stage of the REFILS programme for
effective agricultural transformation. This could
help to ensure increased productivity, enhance
food security and improve standard of living
especially among the rural populace.