Unlocking the Potential of Agriculture through Land Tenure Security: Lessons from Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The research study delved into the intricate relationship between land tenancy security and its impact on investments and agricultural output among crop-producing farmers. The investigation involved 180 participants selected through a multistage random selection process. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to examine the data for this study, which was based on information gathered from primary sources utilizing a structured questionnaire. According to the findings, the majority of participants were male, with an average age of 36 years. Additionally, most respondents were married and literate. On average, the farmers had 16 years of farming experience, and a significant proportion were members of agricultural associations. The average size of smallholder farms was 1.90 hectares. Land acquisition methods varied, with lease, communal, and inheritance being the primary modes. Notably, de jure and de facto indicators stood at 3.9% and 50%, respectively. The tenure security over their farmlands is estimated to be at 55.9% for smallholder farmers Age, farm size, household size, farming experience, crop diversification, credit availability, income, and the status of land ownership security were the variables that had an impact on crop production. The study also highlighted the significant impact of land ownership security on farm investment, with access to credit, income, education level, farming experience, farm size, land ownership security status, and the availability of extension services emerging as contributing factors. In light of these findings, the study advocates for legislative amendments to the Land Use Act of 1978. The proposed changes aim to enhance the security of land ownership, ultimately fostering a more conducive environment for agricultural investments.