Background of the Study
Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, with rural farmers forming the backbone of food production and agrarian exports. Under Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, the agricultural sector was positioned as a major pillar for economic diversification. As part of his economic recovery plans, Buhari’s government sought to boost agricultural production and enhance food security through initiatives such as the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, which provided funding and support to farmers. Additionally, the administration promoted initiatives like the Green Alternative Plan, which aimed to revitalize agriculture by focusing on crop production, livestock farming, and processing industries.
Zaria, a key agricultural hub in Kaduna State, is home to a significant number of rural farmers engaged in various agricultural practices, ranging from crop cultivation to livestock rearing. The impact of Buhari’s agricultural policies on these farmers is an essential area of inquiry, as it helps to assess the practical effects of national initiatives at the grassroots level. With agriculture contributing heavily to rural livelihoods, understanding the success or challenges of Buhari’s policies in regions like Zaria is crucial for evaluating the broader effectiveness of the government’s approach to rural development.
One of the primary objectives of Buhari’s agricultural policies was to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports, promote self-sufficiency, and increase agricultural productivity. This approach was intended to stimulate rural economies, provide job opportunities, and enhance the income levels of farmers. However, despite the initiatives, challenges such as poor access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and unpredictable weather patterns have hindered the full realization of these goals in some rural areas, including Zaria. By focusing on this region, the study will evaluate whether Buhari’s policies have succeeded in improving the economic prospects of rural farmers in Zaria and addressing the challenges they face.
Statement of the Problem
While Buhari’s administration promoted numerous agricultural policies aimed at enhancing food security and rural development, the actual impact of these policies on rural farmers, particularly in Zaria, remains unclear. Despite efforts to boost agricultural productivity through financial support, training, and access to modern technology, many farmers in rural areas still face challenges that impede their full participation in the national agricultural transformation agenda. These challenges include limited access to funding, inadequate storage and processing facilities, and insufficient government support in addressing environmental issues such as drought and soil degradation.
This gap in knowledge creates a need for a focused examination of the effects of Buhari’s agricultural policies on the livelihoods of rural farmers in Zaria. The lack of a comprehensive study on the localized impact of these policies means that policymakers and stakeholders may not have an accurate understanding of the needs and realities of rural agriculturalists, which could hinder the design of future interventions.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the impact of Buhari’s agricultural policies on the productivity of rural farmers in Zaria, Kaduna State.
To evaluate the role of government-sponsored financial schemes in improving the economic conditions of farmers in Zaria.
To identify the challenges faced by rural farmers in Zaria in implementing agricultural policies under Buhari’s administration.
Research Questions
How have Buhari’s agricultural policies affected the productivity of rural farmers in Zaria, Kaduna State?
To what extent have government financial schemes contributed to the economic improvement of rural farmers in Zaria?
What challenges have rural farmers in Zaria encountered in implementing agricultural policies under Buhari’s administration?
Research Hypotheses
There is a significant positive relationship between Buhari’s agricultural policies and the productivity of rural farmers in Zaria.
Government financial schemes have significantly improved the economic conditions of rural farmers in Zaria.
Rural farmers in Zaria face significant challenges in implementing Buhari’s agricultural policies.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the effects of Muhammadu Buhari’s agricultural policies on rural farmers in Zaria, Kaduna State, specifically examining productivity, access to government financial schemes, and challenges faced in the implementation of these policies. The research will be limited to the policies introduced during Buhari’s administration, without extending to policies from previous governments. The study will not cover other regions or states outside of Zaria.
Definitions of Terms
Agricultural Policies: Government strategies aimed at improving agricultural production, food security, and rural development.
Rural Farmers: Individuals who engage in agriculture in non-urban areas, typically involved in subsistence or small-scale farming activities.
Government Financial Schemes: Programs or funds provided by the government to support agricultural activities, including loans, grants, and subsidies.
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