Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
The National Agricultural Policy of Nigeria aims to enhance agricultural productivity, improve food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country (Dada & Usman, 2023). Rural areas, particularly in Jigawa State, where agriculture is the primary livelihood, face persistent food security challenges, including low crop yields, poor irrigation systems, and limited access to markets (Aminu & Abdu, 2024). The National Agricultural Policy seeks to address these issues by promoting improved farming techniques, the use of modern technology, and the establishment of rural infrastructure such as storage facilities and market access roads. Despite these efforts, food insecurity remains widespread in rural communities, including Birnin Kudu Local Government. This study will assess the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in improving rural food security in Birnin Kudu and explore the barriers that hinder its success.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Although the National Agricultural Policy has been implemented to improve food security, rural communities in Birnin Kudu continue to experience high levels of food insecurity. Factors such as inadequate funding, poor implementation, and environmental challenges such as droughts and flooding undermine the policy’s impact (Hassan & Musa, 2024). This study will assess how effective the National Agricultural Policy has been in improving food security in Birnin Kudu and identify the barriers to its success.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in improving rural food security in Birnin Kudu Local Government.
2. To identify the challenges affecting the implementation of the National Agricultural Policy in Birnin Kudu.
3. To recommend strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in improving food security in Birnin Kudu.
1.4 Research Questions
1. How effective has the National Agricultural Policy been in improving food security in Birnin Kudu Local Government?
2. What challenges have hindered the successful implementation of the National Agricultural Policy in Birnin Kudu?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve the impact of the National Agricultural Policy on rural food security in Birnin Kudu?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
1. The National Agricultural Policy has significantly contributed to improving food security in Birnin Kudu Local Government.
2. Poor implementation and environmental challenges hinder the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in Birnin Kudu.
3. Improving access to modern farming techniques and infrastructure will enhance the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in Birnin Kudu.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will provide insights into the effectiveness of the National Agricultural Policy in promoting food security in rural areas, with a focus on Birnin Kudu. The findings will be useful for policymakers, agricultural organizations, and local government authorities seeking to improve food security and agricultural productivity in rural communities. The research will also contribute to the broader understanding of policy implementation in the agricultural sector.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Birnin Kudu Local Government and evaluate the impact of the National Agricultural Policy on food security in this area. It will not cover other local governments in Jigawa State or other agricultural policies. Limitations include potential challenges in accessing data due to logistical constraints and the difficulty of measuring food security comprehensively.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• National Agricultural Policy: A government policy aimed at promoting agricultural development, improving food security, and supporting rural livelihoods.
• Food Security: The condition in which all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs.
• Implementation: The process of putting government policies into practice, including planning, resource allocation, and monitoring.
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