Background of the Study
Small-scale farmers play a crucial role in the agricultural sector in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where they contribute significantly to food production and local economies. Mubi Local Government in Adamawa State, which is primarily agricultural, relies heavily on small-scale farmers for the production of staple crops such as millet, maize, and sorghum. However, these farmers face numerous challenges, including limited access to modern farming techniques, inadequate credit facilities, poor infrastructure, and vulnerability to climate change (Ahmad et al., 2023). Food insecurity in Mubi, like many other rural areas in Nigeria, is often exacerbated by these factors, as small-scale farmers struggle to produce enough food to feed their families and meet market demands.
The Nigerian government has introduced several policies aimed at supporting small-scale farmers, such as the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) and the Anchor Borrowers’ Program (ABP), which provide financial support, training, and access to modern farming inputs. However, the effectiveness of these policies in addressing food insecurity in Mubi Local Government has yet to be fully evaluated. This study seeks to investigate how policies targeting small-scale farmers impact food security in Mubi, focusing on their effectiveness in improving agricultural productivity and reducing food insecurity.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Food insecurity in Mubi Local Government remains a persistent problem despite the existence of various policies aimed at supporting small-scale farmers. While national initiatives such as the Anchor Borrowers’ Program and the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services have been implemented, there has been little empirical research on how these policies have specifically impacted food security at the local level in Mubi (Garba & Usman, 2023). Small-scale farmers in the region continue to face difficulties accessing the resources they need to improve productivity, which directly affects food availability and accessibility. This study seeks to assess the extent to which policies targeting small-scale farmers have alleviated food insecurity in Mubi and to identify the challenges that hinder the effectiveness of these policies.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of policies targeting small-scale farmers in reducing food insecurity in Mubi Local Government, Adamawa State.
To assess the impact of agricultural support programs on the productivity and income of small-scale farmers in Mubi.
To identify the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in Mubi in implementing government policies and achieving food security.
1.4 Research Questions
To what extent have policies targeting small-scale farmers improved food security in Mubi Local Government, Adamawa State?
How have agricultural support programs impacted the productivity and livelihoods of small-scale farmers in Mubi?
What are the main challenges hindering the effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing food insecurity in Mubi Local Government?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Policies targeting small-scale farmers have significantly improved food security in Mubi Local Government, Adamawa State.
Access to agricultural support programs has led to increased agricultural productivity among small-scale farmers in Mubi.
Inadequate infrastructure and limited access to finance are significant barriers to the successful implementation of agricultural policies in Mubi.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of policies targeting small-scale farmers on food insecurity in Mubi Local Government. The findings will offer valuable insights for policymakers and agricultural development agencies on the effectiveness of existing policies and their potential for scaling up to other regions. By identifying the barriers to policy implementation and recommending solutions, the study will contribute to improving food security in Mubi and similar rural areas across Nigeria. Additionally, the research will support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2, which aims to end hunger and achieve food security.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on Mubi Local Government, Adamawa State, and evaluates the impact of policies targeting small-scale farmers on food security. The study will examine national and state-level policies, including the Anchor Borrowers’ Program and the Agricultural Transformation Agenda. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data from farmers and local government officials, as well as challenges in accessing comprehensive data on agricultural productivity and food security levels.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Small-Scale Farmers: Farmers who operate on small plots of land, typically engaging in subsistence agriculture or small commercial farming.
Food Insecurity: The condition where individuals or households lack reliable access to sufficient quantities of affordable, nutritious food.
Anchor Borrowers’ Program (ABP): A government initiative aimed at providing financing and support to small-scale farmers to boost agricultural productivity and food security.
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