Background of the Study
Land tenure systems play a fundamental role in shaping agricultural development in rural areas. In Ikom Local Government Area, the intricate mix of customary and statutory land tenure practices has significantly influenced the way land is accessed, managed, and utilized. Traditional tenure systems, deeply embedded in cultural practices, coexist with modern legal frameworks, often resulting in conflicts over land rights and usage (Agbo, 2024). These conflicts have far-reaching implications on agricultural productivity, as unclear ownership and insecure land rights discourage long-term investments in soil improvement and sustainable farming practices (Balogun, 2023). Recent studies suggest that the efficiency of land tenure systems directly correlates with the rate of agricultural development, as secure land rights encourage farmers to adopt innovative practices and invest in better technologies (Adesina, 2025). Moreover, inconsistent land policies and bureaucratic inefficiencies further complicate land transactions and access to credit facilities, which are vital for modern agricultural operations. The evolving socio-economic landscape in Ikom calls for a comprehensive reexamination of land tenure practices to promote equitable and sustainable agricultural growth. Integrating modern legal provisions with traditional norms may provide a balanced approach that supports agricultural productivity and rural development (Mensah, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
In Ikom Local Government Area, ambiguous land tenure systems have led to persistent challenges in agricultural development. The coexistence of customary and statutory land rights has resulted in frequent disputes, hindering long-term investments in farming practices and reducing agricultural productivity (Akinola, 2023). Farmers face uncertainty over land ownership, which discourages them from adopting improved agricultural techniques or securing financial support from formal institutions. This insecurity is compounded by bureaucratic delays and policy inconsistencies, which further inhibit the efficient use of agricultural land. Consequently, the lack of a clear and unified tenure system contributes to reduced agricultural output and compromises the overall rural economy. Addressing these issues is critical to ensuring sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods in the region (Adeyemi, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
To analyze the current land tenure systems in Ikom and their operational challenges.
To assess the impact of these tenure systems on agricultural productivity and investment.
To propose integrated reforms for securing land rights and boosting agricultural development.
Research Questions:
What are the predominant land tenure systems in Ikom?
How do land tenure practices affect agricultural investment and productivity?
What reforms can harmonize customary and statutory systems to enhance agricultural development?
Research Hypotheses:
H1: Insecure land tenure negatively impacts agricultural investment in Ikom.
H2: Discrepancies between customary and statutory land rights reduce farming productivity.
H3: Harmonizing land tenure systems will lead to improved agricultural outcomes.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a critical evaluation of the land tenure systems affecting agricultural development in Ikom. By highlighting the challenges and proposing integrated reforms, the research contributes to policy debates aimed at securing land rights and enhancing agricultural productivity. Its findings will aid local stakeholders, policymakers, and agricultural investors in developing strategies that foster sustainable rural development. The study also enriches academic literature on land tenure and agricultural practices, offering insights that may be applied in similar contexts (Akinola, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is confined to Ikom Local Government Area and focuses exclusively on the influence of land tenure systems on agricultural development. The analysis relies on available local data and interviews, which may limit broader applicability.
Definitions of Terms:
Land Tenure Systems: The institutional arrangements governing land ownership and use.
Agricultural Development: The process of improving the productivity and sustainability of agricultural practices.
Customary Rights: Traditional, community-based rights to land usage and ownership.
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