Enhancing Rural Market Access and Value Chain Integration for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Nigeria: A Study of Constraints, Strategies, and Implications

Abstract

This study investigates rural market access and value chain integration in Nigeria’s diverse agroecological zones—Northern Sahel, Central Savannah, and Southern Rainforest—to enhance sustainable agricultural development. Employing mixed methods, quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews were conducted with smallholder farmers and key stakeholders. The findings reveal variations in market access challenges, value chain engagement, and the impact of strategies across zones. Challenges encompass transportation costs, distance to markets, lack of market information, and post-harvest losses. Farmer cooperatives emerged as a pivotal strategy, enhancing collective bargaining power. For zone-specific interventions, infrastructure development, market information dissemination, value addition, and financial inclusion programs are recommended. This research contributes to localized approaches for addressing challenges and optimizing opportunities in enhancing rural market access and value chain integration, fostering resilient and inclusive agricultural growth.