Impact of Agricultural Development Programs on Farmers’ Productivity in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State

Abstract

Over the years, agricultural development programs of different forms have been introduced to reduce poverty to some extent at the local level. But due to a number of factors, these programs seem to have failed to realize its aims in Nigeria, and the need to encourage the programs to work is sacrosanct. It is based this that this study is undertaken. The study examined the impact of agricultural development programs on farmers’ productivity in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. Specifically, it explore how policies and progrmmes packed can enhance small scale farmer’s production and the capacity to alleviate rural poverty, and promote socio-economic development. The study has its method rooted in quantitative approach using close ended questionnaire. Simple random sampling technique was used to select study participants for the study. Data obtained were analyzed descriptively on percentage tables using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings of the study shows among others that; effect of government policy and decision on farmers were not given due recognition in decision making, though representatives of the farmers were adequately represented in decision making but yet do not have access to information on agricultural programmes which has impeded the farmers productivity in the study area. Based on these findings, the study recommends among others that; governments should make a new and expanded policy agenda for agricultural extension and communication for the local farmers, the governments will need to provide a national policy agenda on food security and income generation of the rural poor.