Background of the Study
Land tenure systems determine how land is owned, managed, and transferred, and they play a critical role in shaping agricultural efficiency. In Nigeria, where agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for many rural communities, the nature of land tenure arrangements significantly influences investment decisions, land productivity, and resource allocation. Between 2023 and 2025, reforms in land tenure policies have been initiated to promote secure land rights and improve access to credit, thereby encouraging farmers to invest in sustainable practices (Okafor, 2023; Adeyemi, 2024). The theoretical basis of these reforms is that secure land tenure increases farmers’ incentives to invest in long-term improvements such as soil fertility, irrigation infrastructure, and modern farming techniques. Empirical studies indicate that uncertainty in land rights can lead to underinvestment and inefficient land use, ultimately reducing agricultural output and food security.
However, Nigeria’s land tenure system is complex, with a mix of customary, statutory, and informal arrangements. This complexity often leads to disputes, fragmented land holdings, and challenges in formalizing land rights. Such issues hinder efficient land utilization and discourage large-scale agricultural investment. This study aims to appraise the effects of different land tenure systems on agricultural efficiency in Nigeria, analyzing how tenure security, fragmentation, and legal frameworks influence productivity and investment decisions. By drawing on case studies, land use data, and farmer surveys, the research seeks to identify barriers to optimal land utilization and propose policy measures to enhance agricultural efficiency through improved tenure systems.
Statement of the Problem
Despite ongoing reforms, the land tenure system in Nigeria continues to be a source of inefficiency in agriculture. The lack of clear, secure land titles and widespread fragmentation of land holdings often discourage farmers from making necessary investments in sustainable farming practices (Ibrahim, 2024). Land disputes and unclear ownership rights lead to uncertainty, limiting access to formal credit and technology adoption. Furthermore, the coexistence of customary and statutory systems creates inconsistencies in land administration, resulting in inefficient land use and low productivity. This mismanagement contributes to reduced agricultural output and hinders the overall growth of the sector. The study seeks to analyze the extent to which these tenure issues affect agricultural efficiency and to identify the structural reforms needed to streamline land administration and boost productivity (Nwankwo, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on the impact of land tenure systems on agricultural efficiency in Nigeria from 2023 to 2025. Data sources include land administration records, farmer surveys, and case studies. Limitations include regional variations in tenure practices and potential legal ambiguities.
Definitions of Terms
– Land Tenure Systems: The methods and arrangements through which land rights are allocated and managed.
– Agricultural Efficiency: The effective use of land and inputs to maximize agricultural output.
– Land Fragmentation: The division of land into smaller, less economically viable parcels.
– Tenure Security: The degree of certainty that land rights will be protected.
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