Background of the Study
Food security, which encompasses availability, access, utilization, and stability of food, is an essential aspect of human rights recognized under the 1999 Nigerian Constitution. The right to adequate food is implicitly supported by constitutional provisions relating to the right to life and dignity (Sections 33 and 34), emphasizing that no citizen should suffer from hunger or lack of adequate nourishment.
In Makurdi LGA, the capital of Benue State, agricultural productivity is central to the local economy, with farming serving as the primary livelihood for many residents. However, despite the agricultural potential, food insecurity remains a persistent issue due to poor infrastructure, land tenure problems, climate change, and policy failures in addressing agricultural subsidies and food distribution.
This study seeks to explore the role of constitutional law in shaping food security policies at the local government level, with a focus on Makurdi LGA, and assess the effectiveness of these policies in combating food insecurity.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the constitutional guarantees of the right to food, Makurdi LGA faces significant challenges in addressing food insecurity. These challenges are due to poor governance, lack of effective policies, land tenure issues, and climate-related impacts. Agricultural policies designed to address food production and distribution have not sufficiently mitigated the issues of hunger and malnutrition in the region.
This study will evaluate the effectiveness of food security policies in Makurdi LGA, the constitutional frameworks that support them, and the challenges that hinder their implementation.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To assess the role of constitutional law in shaping food security policies in Makurdi LGA.
To evaluate the effectiveness of food security policies in addressing food insecurity in Makurdi LGA.
To identify the challenges faced by local authorities in implementing food security policies and propose solutions for improvement.
1.4 Research Questions
How does constitutional law influence food security policies in Makurdi LGA?
What are the challenges faced by Makurdi LGA in implementing food security policies?
How can food security be improved in Makurdi LGA through constitutional law and effective policies?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Constitutional provisions have an influential role in shaping food security policies in Makurdi LGA.
The lack of effective policy implementation and governance failures contribute to food insecurity in Makurdi LGA.
Strengthening constitutional frameworks and improving policy implementation will reduce food insecurity in Makurdi LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will provide insights into how constitutional law and food security policies intersect to address the issue of hunger and malnutrition in Makurdi LGA. The findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on food security in Nigeria, offering recommendations for enhancing policy implementation at the local government level.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on Makurdi LGA, Benue State, and evaluates the role of constitutional law in shaping food security policies. The limitations include data availability and policy documentation from local authorities.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Food Security: The state in which all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs.
Constitutional Law: The body of law that governs citizens' rights and governmental responsibilities, including food security.
Food Insecurity: A condition where people do not have enough access to nutritious and sufficient food due to various factors.
This study examines the value relevance of international public sector accounting standards adoption in the Lagos state Civil...
Background of the Study
Internal audit is a critical function in ensuring accountability, transparency, and financial integ...
Background of the Study
Indigenous languages in Nigeria, such as Igbo and Yoruba, boast complex morphological systems that...
Background of the Study
The rise of digital communication, particularly through SMS, has led to notable changes in syntact...
Background of the study
School libraries have long been recognized as vital centers of learning that promote reading, criti...
Background of the Study
Vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major public health challenge worldwide, with...
Background of the study
Indigenous fishing taboos in Eket Local Government are traditional regulatory mechanisms that have...
Background of the Study:
The rapid digital transformation in higher education has paved the way for innovative mentorship m...
Background of the Study
Birth weight is a critical determinant of neonatal and child health outcomes. Low birth weight (LBW), defined by...
Background of the Study
Human resource planning (HRP) is a strategic process aimed at forecasting an organization’s h...