Motivating Adult Learners toward Agribusiness Vocational Training in Taraba State, Nigeria

Agribusiness vocational training holds transformative potential for rural adult populations in Taraba State, Nigeria, yet participation rates remain critically low. This study investigated the motivational factors influencing adult learners' engagement with agribusiness vocational training programs in Taraba State, drawing on Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and andragogy as theoretical frameworks. Employing a mixed-methods research design, data were collected from 347 adult learners, 28 vocational instructors, and 14 extension officers across six Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state. Quantitative data were gathered using a validated 42-item Likert-scale questionnaire, while qualitative insights were obtained through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Findings revealed that economic incentives, perceived social relevance, access to market linkages, and peer support networks were the dominant intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. In contrast, low literacy levels, cultural barriers, family obligations, inadequate training infrastructure, and the absence of government-backed credit facilities emerged as the principal demotivating factors. The study recommends the integration of flexible, context-sensitive curriculum designs that align with the agricultural calendar, the strengthening of farmer cooperative learning clusters, and enhanced policy commitment to agribusiness training funding in Taraba State. These findings contribute to a growing body of knowledge on adult vocational education in Nigeria's Middle Belt region.