This study examined the major roles playedby the government owned agricultural extension outfit in other to alleviate
the poverty status of oilpalmfarmers in Ogun State. Multi stage sampling procedure was used to select 120 Oil palm
farmers, who were interviewed in May 2003. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistical tools such as
percentages, averages, ranking andcharts. Two null hypotheses were also testedusing the Chi Square Coefficient. The
result revealed that oilpalmfarmers are elderly, married, males andfemales. They have noformal education and are
members offarmers cooperative groups. It was also established that, more than half of thefarmers are large-scale oil
palm producers. They still use crude methodsfor palmfruit harvesting andprocessing. Furthermore, the studyfound
significant relationship between group membership andfrequency of extension agents’ contacts (}Cmi = 23.65). The
study concluded that, fanners are better assisted when they form strong groups through which intervention can take
place. It also recommends that, other categories offarmers should be encouraged to organize themselves into viable
groups so that they can benefit adequately from the services rendered by the extension service agency. Also, better
working environment should be providedfor thefield level extension agents to better perform their roles in the rural
ureas
