Benefits of the National Special Programme for Food Security in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the benefits of the National Special Programme for Food Security (NSPFS) in Niger State, Nigeria. A total of 180 respondents were selected using multistage sampling technique. The project sites were chosen purposively comprising of all the nine sites of NSPFS in Niger State, namely; Nassarawa, Batavovogi, Lenfa-Bororo, Gidan-Mangoro, Garam, Mankangara, Lioji, Kaboji and Shambo. The respondents were selected proportionately based on each site’s activities. Data collection lasted from 15th February, 2013 to 31st August, 2013. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and means, frequency distribution and t-test. The results of the analysis showed an indication that the NSPFS performed well. The beneficiaries were satisfied with the implementation of the following components: agro-input support, extension and financial services. NSPFS significantly improved the crop output of beneficiaries as compared to non-beneficiaries. The benefits that accrued to the beneficiaries of the programme ranges from credit grant to farmers to provision of storage facilities which translated into increased outputs. The following recommendations were made based on the major findings of the study. The NSPFS should focus more attention on mechanization, storage facilities, agro-processing, marketing, small scale irrigation, and infrastructure, because it will help the benefitting famers to actualize their pre-determined goals, it will also improve their well-being. Keywords: Food, Security, Performance, Special Programme, Food Security DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/11-6-02 Publication date: March 31 st 2021