Role of Youths in Agricultural Development in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State

Abstract

The study investigated the role of youths in agricultural development in Makurdi Local Government area (LGA) of Benue State. Interview schedules were used to collect data from 120 youths selected through random sampling procedure from Makurdi LGA. Descriptive and inferential statistics namely, mean and factor analysis respectively were used to analyze the data. The result shows that youths play important roles in the supply of labour, donation of materials, initiating of projects, attend meetings punctually and use initiatives to gain outside help. Also, participation of youths in community based non-formal rural youth agricultural programmes is mainly in youth organizations which includes, age grades, local social clubs and young farmers organization. The major problems that inhibit youth participation in agricultural activities were lack of commitment, lack of logistic support and lack of land ownership. It was recommended that a robust relationship between agencies interested in encouraging youth involvement in agriculture should be evolved through legislation and implementation of policies to guarantee training programmes, credit facilities and land accessibility to youths at the identified rural youth organizations. This will enhance youth involvement and catalyze agricultural development.