CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Rice belongs to the order Poales and the grass family Poaceae formally Gramineae (Kirk

etal, 1998). Two species of rice named Oryza sativa and Oryza glaberrima are known, and

cultivated throughout the world while the latter is grown partially in the western part of Africa

(Von and Kole, 2006). Rice is a staple food for over half of the world's population and the most

important among all the cereal crops (Khush, 1997; Dogara & Jumare, 2014). Rice is the third

major crop cultivated in the world after wheat and maize (Ajala and Gana, 2015; USAID, 2016).

The Asian continent dominates in terms of global rice production, with China and India leading

the way. Asian countries produce the most rice worldwide, while countries in Africa, Latin

America, and the Middle East have considerable proportions of rice consumption and demand.

The top 10 rice producing countries in the world today are China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh,

Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Pakistan. Approximately 480 million

metric tons of milled rice is produced annually. China and India alone account for 50% of the

rice grown and consumed. In Nigeria, rice has consumption per capita of 32 kg indicating 4.7%

increase in the past decade making the total consumption to be 6.4million tons in 2017 as against

3.7 million tons produced per year (Erhie etal., 2018).

Rice is very important in Nigeria, based on the various ways it can be used. The

capability to produce more rice has aided in development of numerous communities, while its

failure has led to the spread of starvation, death and political uncertainty in many countries

including Nigeria (Secketal, 2012; Oludare, 2014). The acceptance of rice as food has witness

1
an upsurge lately by becoming a major crop in many countries in America and Africa (Secket al,

2012). Local dishes prepared with rice in Nigeria most especially the northern part include

“Masa‟, or “Waina”, “Tuwo”, and “Alkakki”, while the most common form of food prepared

with rice all over the country include pudding and boiled form eaten with stew or combined with

potatoes, yam, beans and pears (Oludare, 2014).

Nigeria, in the same vein is the highest consumer of rice within the West African sub-

region. Rice remains politically and economically central to Nigeria’s life. It also, remains the

main diet of typical Nigerians as well as the main source livelihood of majority of local farmers

in the country. It therefore becomes an important agricultural commodity that needs to draw the

attention of government and policymakers to its impacts on both domestic and international

market for the wellbeing and development of the nation (Akaeze, 2010). In the year 2000,

Kaduna state was the largest rice producer, accounting for about 22% of the country’s rice

output. This was followed by Niger state (16%), Benue state (10%) and Taraba state (7%)

(Damola, 2010).

In order to enhance rice production at both national and international level, several

agencies and programmes were put in place. At national level, they includes; West Africa Rice

Development Association (WARDA), International Network for the Genetic Evaluation of Rice

(INGER Africa), Green River Project, Germ plasm Collection and Conservation, Prop Com,

Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Multinational New Rice for Africa (NERICA)

Rice Dissemination Project (MNRDP), The Ibom Rice Project. At the national level, similar

programmemes and agencies were created to improve rice production at local level to in turn

reduce rice importation as well as create jobs for Nigerians. Such interventions included; Federal

Rice Research Station (FRRS), National Accelerated Food production Programme (NAFPP),

2
National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI), The Operation Feed the Nation (OFN), Abakaliki

Rice Project, Agricultural Development Project (ADP), Nigerian Agricultural and Cooperative

Bank (NACB), The Presidential Rice Initiative. It seems all these programmemes suffered one

set back or the other as claimed by different researchers (Emodi and Madukwe, 2008).

In furtherance to her past efforts to increase rice production, fight inflation and

unemployment, the Central Bank of Nigeria in line with its developmental function established

the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) in year 2015 with a view to collaborate with anchor

companies involved in the production and processing of key agricultural commodities. The

Programme is targeted toward helping local farmers increase production and supply of feedstock

to the processors, reduce importation and conserve Nigeria’s external reserves. Under the

Scheme, Anchor firms serve as Off-takers in recognition of their track record and experience in

working without-growers involved in production. The Scheme involves a finance model where

by the anchor firms, CBN, NIRSAL and State Governments organize the out-growers and ensure

that they comply with contractual terms thereby reducing the incidence of side-selling. The

financing institutions serve as veritable channels for delivering credit to the out-growers.

With this fantastic plan, this research is aimed at assessing the impact of anchor

borrowers Programme of rice production in Nigeria, a case study of Ushongo Local Government

Area of Benue State, with focus on the varieties of rice produce in the area, impact of the

programme, factors militating against the success of the programme, if they exist and

recommend better ways of implementing the programme.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

It is a well known fact that rice production in Nigeria is very low as quantity produced

locally is not enough to meet consumption needs of the people. The Nigerian government

3
realized that low production of locally grown crops such as rice may have adverse effect on the

Nigerian economy amongst others (Adesina, 2013). This has forced the Nigerian government

to place embargo on importation of foreign rice with corresponding efforts to boost local rice

production (CBN, 2016).

With a limited production of rice and excess demand, there is a tendency for price of rice

to rise as demands compete against each other. This high price of rice mainly hurt the poor, who

spend large shares of their income on rice which is a major staple food in Nigeria. This scenario

was the basis for the implementation of the Anchor Borrower Programme in Nigeria by the

Federal government (Saheed, 2014). The aimed at boosting local rice production through small

holder farmers through provision of farm inputs, financial assistance and hybrid rice varieties. . For

example, as at December 2017, about N55 billion have been so far invested in the rice industry

through anchor borrower programme of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN, 2015). This is to provide

succor to Nigerian rice farmers in order to meet up some challenges associated with the high

cost of agricultural input, low output, low income, poor seedling, inadequate and high price of

fertilizer, low patronage, problem of irrigation, water pumping machine amongst others (Saheed,

2018).

Several researchers have made efforts in assessing the government intervention

programmemes including the anchor borrow programme. For example; Saheed (2018) wrote on

the impact of anchor borrower programme on agricultural credit guarantee scheme fund on

domestic food supply in Nigeria, he (Saheed) again researched on the impact of the programme

on agricultural commodity price and employment generation. Damola (2010) in the same lane

wrote on sector strategies and policies related to rice development in Nigeria, Badejo and

Adekeye (2018) paid more mind on the impact of anchor borrowers programme on poverty

4
alleviation in Argungu local government area of Kebbi state. Little or no research is done on the

impact of Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushongo Local Government Area. It is on this

background that this research is done to assess the impact of the programme on rice production

in Ushongo which is known for rice production in Benue state so as to close this knowledge gap.

1.3 Research Questions

This study intends to answer the following research questions:

i. What are the varieties of rice produced with the assistance from Anchor Borrower

Programme in Ushongo Local Government Area?

ii. What is the impact of the programme or intervention on rice production in Ushongo

Local Government Area?

iii. What are the factors militating against Anchor Borrowers Programme on improving rice

production in Ushongo Local Government Area?

iv. How can rice production be improved through Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushongo

Local Government Area?

1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this work is to assess the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on rice

production in Ushongo Local Government Area. This study is specifically designed to achieve

the following objectives;

i. To explore varieties of rice produced with the assistance from Anchor Borrower

Programme in Ushongo Local Government Area.

ii. To assess the impact of the programme or intervention on rice production in Ushongo

Local Government Area.

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 iii. To know the factors militating against Anchor Borrowers Programme on improving

rice production in Ushongo Local Government Area.

iv. To investigate how rice production be improved through Anchor Borrower

Programme in Ushongo Local Government Area.

1.5 Research Assumptions

i. The Anchor Borrowers Programme of the government has no significant impact on rice

production in Ushongo Local Government Area.

1.6 Significance of the Study

Researches globally are conducted primarily to proffer solutions that will be beneficiary

to stakeholders. On this note this research will be relevant to policy makers to have clear

information before articulating policies and programmemes that can go a long way to alleviate or

eradicate this problem. This research work will provide vital information to Ushongo residents

regarding the impact of anchor borrowers programme in increasing rice production in Ushongo

Local Government Area of Benue State.

This study theoretically, will be useful in contributing to existing knowledge; that is, this

research work will affirm or reject some sociological arguments (theory). This work will also

serve as a guide to other researchers who wish to research more in a similar area to have more

information to guide their research work.

Furthermore, this research work will be enlightenment manual to farmers and

government to sustain its strategies or re-strategize to food shortage. In the long run this research

work may give rise to a food security, where standard of living of the people will be improved,

more revenue for the government, and jobs for our teaming youth.

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1.7 Scope of the Study

Conceptual scope of the study is limited to varieties of rice produced with the assistance

from Anchor Borrower Programme, the impact of the programme or intervention on rice

production, actors militating against Anchor Borrowers Programme on improving rice

production and how rice production be improved through Anchor Borrower Programme.

In terms of geographical scope, the research is narrowed down to Ushongo Local

Government Area. For time scope, this research work covers also a time frame of five years

(2015-2020). This five year interval is selected for the study due to the recent revelation that

Nigeria spends over N356 billion on yearly importation of rice, out of which about N1billion is

used per day (Emefiele, 2016).

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

For better understanding of concepts used in this research, the following concepts will be

clarified in context used in this research work.

Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP): A programme created in the year 2015 to economic

linkages between smallholder farmers and reputable large-scale processors with a view to

increasing agricultural output and significantly improving capacity utilization of integrated rice

mills.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

2.1 Introduction

This chapter dwells on literature review and theoretical framework. The review of

pertinent literature for this study will be based on certain themes which are; to identify the

varieties of rice produced in Ushongo Local Government Area, assess the

interventions/programmemes of government aimed at increasing rice production, to know the

factors militating against rice production and to investigate how rice production can be increased

in Ushongo Local Government Area. The researcher has adopted the structural functionalist

theory on the impact of Anchor Borrowers Programme on rice production in Ushongo Local

Government Area of Benue State.

2.2 Conceptual Clarification

This section dwells on the definition of key concepts, which include; anchor borrower’s

production and rice production. These definitions however focus on the subject matter of the

study.

2.2.1 Anchor Borrowers Programme

The Anchor Borrowers’ Programmme (ABP) was established in 2015 by the Central

Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in line with its developmental function. This was done in order to curb

the high cost been incurred by the government on the importation of food crops or agricultural

products that can be produced within the country. According to the CBN guide on the

programmeme (2015), Nigeria’s agricultural commodities and food import bill has averaged over

8
N1trillion in the past two years. Food products like milk, sugar, rice, wheat and fish accounted

for N901billion or 93.5% and N788billion or 88.71% of this total in 2013 and 2014, respectively.

These figures are exclusive of the activities of smugglers. The import bill of rice and wheat was

estimated at N428 billion in 2013 and N307 billion in 2014. These huge amounts were expended

on items that the country has the potential to produce locally with the attendant loss of

employment generation and wealth creation opportunities (Umeh and Adejo 2019).

Furthermore, the allocation of foreign exchange to the importation of these items has

continually depleted our foreign reserve, which has been on a steady decline in recent times. The

current effort of the CBN to stimulate local production of the commodities is largely due to the

adverse effect of their importation to the nation’s foreign reserves. Under the intervention, the

CBN has set aside the sum of N20billion from the N220billion Micro, Small and Medium

Enterprises Development Fund (MSMEDF) for farmers at a single-digit interest rate of 9%. The

programmeme seeks to pursue objectives such as, creation of jobs, reduction in food imports and

diversification of the economy. The programmeme aims at creating linkages between over

600,000 smallholder farmers (out-growers) and reputable large-scale processors (off-takers) with

a view to increasing agricultural output and significantly improving capacity utilization of

integrated mills (Umeh and Adejo 2019).

2.2.2 Rice Production in Nigeria

Rice production in Nigeria started about 1500BC with the low yield indigenous red grain

species “Oryza glaberimastued” that was widely grown in the Niger Delta (Ogundele and

Okoruwa, 2006). While Oryza sativa that has higher yield was introduced in 1980s. Today, rice

is grown in almost all the agro-ecological zones in Nigeria but on a relative small scale. Imolehin

and Wada (2000) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018) revealed that paddy rice production had increased from

9
13,400 to 344,000 tonnes in 1970, and area cultivated was 156,000 to 255,000ha. The

tremendous increase in area planted, output and productivity in paddy rice production were

achieved over the last two decades, and now stand at 66,6000ha, 1.09 million tonnes and 2.07

tonnes/ha respectively. Nigeria was the largest rice producing country in West Africa and the

third largest in Africa, after Egypt and Madagasca in 1980 (West Africa Rice Development

Association (WARDA) 2005).

In 1990, the country produced 3.4 million tonnes of rice from about 1.2 million ha, this

normal production trend would have been sustained if government has steady policy on rice

import (Imolehin and Wada 2000) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018) . In 1985, rice production was

increased and this may be attributed to the ban imposed on rice import and if this is maintained,

Nigeria rice farmers would have risen to the challenges of meeting the domestic demand for the

commodity.

In 2000, Kaduna State was the largest rice producer, accounting for about 22% of the

country’s rice output. This was followed by Niger state (16%), Benue state (10%) and Taraba

state (7%). Great variations also exist in terms of yield. The average national rice yield during

the dry season (3.05 tons/ha) was higher than that of the wet season (1.85 ton/ha). Nigeria is

currently the highest rice producer in West Africa, producing an average of 3.2 million tons of

paddy rice or 2.0 million tons of milled rice per annum (Damola 2010). Nevertheless, there is a

wide gap between local supply and the ever increasing demand for rice in Nigeria.

Lenis, Gbolagede and Oyeleke (2009) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018) opined that most of the

rice grown in the middle belt comes from Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Niger, Kwara and Taraba

States, while that grown in the east typically comes from Enugu, Cross River and Ebonyi States.

10
Ekiti and Ogun states are the major rice producing areas in Western Nigeria (Lenis et’ al 2009)

in Ayinde, et’ al (2018). Rice production in Nigeria is still predominantly rain fed with an

emphasis on low lands. However, there is a clear gender division of labour in rice production and

processing in Nigeria. Oyeleke (2009) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018) opined that rice production is

clearly the work of men, whereas rice post-harvest activities are clearly the domain of women.

Still, participation rates over the various rice production and processing activities vary. Land

preparation is mostly male dominated activity. Other field activities such as crop establishment,

weeding, fertilization and harvesting are substantial contribution of women. Although men are

involved in these operations, women are also involved. Similarly, men are also involved in post-

harvest activities (Lenis et’ al 2009) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018).

Several efforts have been made to improve rice production in Nigeria. One key player

was the presidential initiative on rice (2004 - 2007) with the objective of addressing the widening

demand - supply gap in rice production and attaining self-sufficiency, as well as reducing the

huge import bill on rice. The presidential initiative proposed a national rice project with the

following highlights; private sector led, based on an intensification policy, NERICA varieties to

be used for upland areas while other varieties adaptable to all agricultural zones of the country

would also be used and the provision of certified rice seeds by the government. In pursuance of

rice self-sufficiency policy, federal government released N1.5 billion for multiplication and

distribution of certified rice seeds (Lenis et’ al 2009) in Ayinde, et’ al (2018).

Irrespective of these efforts and goals, Nigeria’s rice production did not meet its target of

food sufficiency in 2007. Efforts to stimulate the Nigeria rice sub sector include the organization

of workshops to sensitize rice farmers to form more cooperative group as to enable them

participate effectively in the rice initiatives Zonal mobilization of farmers to produce selected

11
rice varieties to feed large scale processing mills (Lenis et al, 2009) . The demand for rice in

Nigeria has been increasing, even at a faster rate than in other West African countries.

During the 1960s Nigeria had the lowest per-capital annual consumption of rice in the

sub-region (average of 3kg). Since then, Nigeria per - capita consumption levels have grown

significantly at 7.3 percent per annum. Damola (2010) attributed the structural increase in rice

consumption in Nigeria to various reasons which include urbanization that has shifted consumer

preference towards rice. Thus, per capita consumption during the 1980s averaged 18kg and

reached 22kg in 1995 - 1999. Based on an estimated annual rice consumption of 5 million MT in

Nigeria, per capita consumption is 32kg per annum with per capita consumption in the urban

area higher, averaging 47kg per annum (2008 estimates). With the arrival of the drought tolerant

and high yielding rice variety, “NERICA” (new Rice for Africa) and other initiatives by the

government of Nigeria has the potential to increase its domestic rice production, thus reducing its

import bill and becoming self-sufficient in riceAyinde, et’ al (2018).

2.3 Varieties of Rice Production in Nigeria

There are many varieties of rice grown in Nigeria. Some of these are considered 'traditional'

varieties. Improvement programmemes on Nigerian rice came into existence in the 1920s under

the British Colonial administration with the establishment of the Federal Department of

Agriculture at Moor Plantation Ibadan (Ukwungwu et al., 2009). In 1939, West Africa

Commission recommended the establishment of rice research station to serve all the West

African Countries (Udemezue and Agwu, 2018).

On the long run, Federal Rice Station at Bida in Niger State, now the Headquarters of

National Cereals Research Institute, was established in 1953 (Imolehin and Wada, 2000). The

12
purpose of the station was to develop varieties with improved grain quality, uniform shape and

sizes that will have minimum breakages during milling. Thirteen (13) improved rice varieties,

comprising two upland (FARO 3 and FARO 11), eight shallow swamps (FARO 1, FARO 5,

FARO 6, FARO 7, FARO 8, FARO 8, FARO 12 and FARO) and three deep flooded rice (FARO

4 and FARO 9) were released to Nigerian farmers at the interval of 1954 – 1970. Between 1971 -

1984, Research Institutes released sixteen (16) more rice varieties (FARO 14, FARO 15, FARO

16, FARO17, FARO 18, FARO 19, FARO 20, FARO 21, FARO 22, FARO 23, FARO 24,

FARO 25, FARO 26, FARO 27, FARO 28 and FARO 29) with the ability to resist pests and

diseases, as well as the desired trait for nutrition and yield to Nigerian rice farmers (Udemezue

and Agwu, 2018).

The sixteen varieties recommended were made up of one upland rice, twelve lowland and

three deep water ecology rice. Between1985 - 1989, fourteen additional high-yields, blast -

resistant varieties (FARO 38, FARO 39, FARO 40, FARO 41, FARO 42, FARO 43 FARO 30,

FARO 31, FARO 32, FARO 33, FARO 34, FARO 35, FARO 36 and FARO 37) comprising of

six upland and three lowland varieties were released. In 1990 more eleven rice varieties

consisting eight upland and three shallow swamp varieties were released to Nigerian farmers

(Udemezue and Agwu, 2018).

More so, in order to achieve the objective of people’s demand on rice, fifty-one rice varieties

have been bred from 1990-2000 to suit the various ecological zones of the country’s rain fed

uplands, flooded plains and irrigated plains. Some of the varieties include (FARO 44, FARO 45,

FARO 46, FARO 47, FARO 48, FARO 49, FARO 50 and FARO 51). These varieties have

properties that satisfy different consumer preferences in terms of grain type, swelling

capacity, amylase content, protein and cooking time (Imolehin and Wada, 2000).

13
 In spite of the fifty-one rice varieties released for farmers in Nigeria, the National Cereals

Research Institute (NCRI) in collaboration with National Seed Service (NSS) identified varieties

preferred by farmers in Nigeria (Longtau, 2003). There is an indication that farmers in different

states have higher preference for FARO 44 and FARO 46, respectively. Therefore, the adoption

of FARO 44 by different States in Nigeria is expected to be high compared to other rice varieties.

According to Longtau (2003), six rice growing environments have been identified, they are

upland, hydromorphic, rain fed lowland, irrigated lowland, deep inland water and mangrove

swamp. According to Damola, (2010), rice growing environment in Nigeria are usually classified

into five rice ecosystems: rain-fed lowland which accounts for 47% of total rice production area,

rain-fed upland (30%), irrigated lowland including large-scale irrigation schemes and small-scale

irrigation schemes account for 16% of total rice area, deep water (5%) and mangrove swamp

accounting for less than 1% of total rice area.

Imolehin and Wada, (2000) show the possible land area for rice production in Nigeria to be

4.6 million and 4.9 million hectare, and the areas includes five different ecologies such as;

upland, inland or shallow swamp ecology, irrigated rice ecology, deep water or floating rice

ecology and tidal(mangrove) swamp ecologies. These ecologies cannot be the same in terms of

hydrology and water control. The type of rice plants that are grown are different for each ecology

.Plant bred for the irrigated land for instance cannot be grown in the uplands or flood plain and

deep water environment (Pingali et al., 1997). In all, rice ecologies are bred for a specific zone.

Therefore, the modern FARO 44 high yielding varieties that outshined the other varieties were

developed for the irrigated and the favorable rain fed lowlands (Udemezue and Agwu, 2018).

2.4 Interventions/Programmemes of Government aimed at increasing Rice Production in

Nigeria

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 The Nigerian government had at various times enacted policies aimed at increasing rice

production, this is to make the nation self-sufficient and meet domestic demand for rice in

Nigeria. A number of key policies and investment strategies had been introduced to reduce

imports and increase the competitiveness of local rice. This is being done through a combination

of import restrictions, input policy and institutional reforms, and investments across the rice

value chain (Johnson, et al., 2013). However, the country’s policy on rice has been inconsistent

and has oscillated between import tariffs and import restrictions including outright ban

(Emodi&Madukwe, 2012).

According to Coulter and Havrland (2005) in Nneka (2018), seeking to eliminate imports

over a short-time span is very unrealistic with consumption outstripping production. Growth in

rice demand as a preferred staple is so strong that production intensification and higher yields

has not been sufficient to fill the gap and meet rice demand (Tollens, 2007). Extensive or a rapid

increase in the area under rice cultivation (irrigated and rain fed) was recommended. From

historical perspective, rice policies and acts in Nigeria can be discussed under three periods

(Akande, 2003). These are:

Pre-ban period (1971-1985): This can be classified into pre-crisis (1971-1980) and the crisis

period (1981-1985). The Pre-Crisis period was largely characterized by liberal policies

(agricultural policies, programmes, projects and institutions) on rice imports. Ad-hoc policies

were put in place during times of interim shortages. It corresponded to the launching of various

programmemes and projects aiming at developing rice production. During the crisis period, more

stringent policies (Input Supply and Distribution Policy, Agricultural Input Subsidy Policy,

Water Resources and Irrigation Policy, Agricultural Cooperatives Policy) were put in place.

Government policies artificially lowered domestic rice and fertilizer prices relative to the world

15
price level, through massive importation of rice resulting in low price of locally produced rice.

Government was involved in rice importation, distribution, and its marketing with non-transfer

of actual costs to consumers.

Ban period (1986-1995): The ban placed on rice import was reinforced by the introduction of

Structural Adjustment Programmeme (SAP) in 1986. Under SAP, various trade policies (tariff,

import restrictions, and outright ban on rice import at various times) were put in place. It was

illegal to import rice into the country, though importation of the commodity through the

country’s porous borders thrived during this period.

Post-ban period (1995-2011): During this period restrictions on rice importation were lifted,

with more liberal trade policy put in place. The decline in domestic rice production cannot all be

blamed on increasing rice imports. A number of reasons led to the lifting of the ban. There was

extended pressure from the international financial organizations, such as the World Bank, World

Trade Organization, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) who argued that the ban on rice

was not in consonance with the liberalization position of the government. On the domestic scene,

the government failed in the implementation of the ban on the commodity. This is evidence by

the major markets in Nigeria flooded with imported rice despite restrictions. There was also

pressure on the government by those who had vested interest in rice importation and the urban

elites who had a preference for the consumption of imported rice (Ladebo, 1999).

2.4.1 Policies, Programmemes and Agencies for Accelerating Rice Production in Nigeria

During the pre-colonial colonial period in Nigeria, attention was not focused on rice

production. During this period, focus was rather on export crops such as cocoa, groundnut,

rubber and palm produce; supported through pricing and marketing board policies. Thus rice and

16
other food crops were left to develop at their own pace with no incentives, in the hands of the

peasant farmers (Akpokodge, Lancon, Erenstein, 2001). To attain modest strides in rice

production, some actions were taken by some key actors with collaboration of national and

international organizations.

For instance, Federal Rice Research Station (FRRS) was established in 1970 in Nigeria to

research into the development of improved varieties of grains. The objectives were achieved

through introduction and adaptation by the rice farmers. National Accelerated Food production

Programme (NAFPP) was funded in 1972 with the mandate to effectively design, test and

transfer technology package for production of Rice, maize, sorghum, millet and wheat. National

Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) lunched in 1974 to carry out research on high yielding rice

varieties for farmers, on-farm adaptive research, seed multiplication and training of extension

staff.

Furthermore, the Operation Feed the Nation (OFN) was established in 1976 for self-

sufficiency in domestic food supply. There was introduction of land use subsidy Decree, seed

and fertilizer supply, credit and mechanization in agriculture. Abakaliki Rice Project was

established in 1978 for rice production and processing. Agricultural Development Project (ADP)

initiated in 1987 is the main link between research and farmers. It has been a channel through

which government policies on rice production were implemented. Nigerian Agricultural and

Cooperative Bank (NACB) was established in 1988 for special credit schemes to boost rice

production and other activities/crops (maize, sorghum). In 1999, The Presidential Rice Initiative

was launched to address the widening demand supply gap and attain self-sufficiency in rice

production.

17
 In 2011, Nigerian government embarked on a plan to make the country self-sufficient in rice

production by 2015 under its Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA). This was in response

to the perceived threat of huge volumes of rice importation into Nigeria every year with an

import bill that exceeds US$2 billion (Johnson, et al., 2013). The reforms include deregulating

seed and fertilizer markets and setting up private-sector marketing corporations to help

coordinate the market and set grades and standards. Innovative financing mechanisms for

supplying credit were also being pursued while physical investments were made to establish

staple crop processing zones (SCPZ) that were intended to encourage the clustering of food

processing industries in proximity to raw materials and end markets (Johnson, et al., 2013). The

overall goal of the Agenda is to define agriculture as a business, promote private sector

investment in agriculture, along with the development of private sector driven marketing

organizations and the promotion of Incentive-based Risk Sharing for Agricultural Lending

(NIRSAL).

NIRSAL is a dynamic, holistic approach that tackles both the agricultural value chain and the

agricultural financing value chain. It does two things at once; fixes the agricultural value chain,

so that banks can lend with confidence to the sector, and, encourages banks to lend to the

agricultural value chain by offering them strong incentives and technical assistance. The goal of

NIRSAL is to trigger an agricultural industrialization process through increased production and

processing to boost economic earnings across the value chain. Unlike previous schemes, it

encouraged banks to lend to the entire spectrum of the agricultural value chain and to all sizes of

producers.

The final goal of the rice transformation agenda is to reduce the import bill, and make

Nigeria self-sufficient by 2015. To achieve the goal, the strategy aimed at improving rice quality

18
offering a viable alternative to the current imports. The policy focus at the macro level is to

increase rice import tariffs to the point of a complete embargo by 2015, when the goal of rice

self-sufficiency is supposed to be met. The tariff increases were intended to protect the domestic

rice sector while it undergoes improvements in paddy production, processing, and marketing

with the support of public-sector reforms and investments (Johnson, et al., 2013). The plan was

backed by strong fiscal policies to raise total production to 7.4 million metric tonnes of paddy

with an average yield of 4 MT/Ha (Akinwumi, 2012). The policy also aimed to raise the

processing capacity of private mills to 2.5 Million MT of long grain milled rice which is at par

with import quality; and add additional 2 million MT of rice to domestic food supply by 2015

(Akinwumi, 2012). To achieve this, the Federal Government in 2013 established 17 integrated

large-scale rice processing plants in 12 states of the Federation for the purposes of producing

long grain milled rice locally.

2.5.1 Impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on Rice Production in Nigeria

In assessing the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme since inception, several

researches are done to understand the impact, challenges and recommend better ways of

implementing the programme to achieve the desired results. For example; Saheed (2018) wrote

on the impact of anchor borrower programme on agricultural credit guarantee scheme fund on

domestic food supply in Nigeria, which found out that the scheme performed above average. He

(Saheed) again researched on the impact of the programme on agricultural commodity price and

employment generation, recommendations were made on how job creation will be increased

through the programme.

Damola (2010) in the same lane wrote on sector strategies and policies related to rice

development in Nigeria, Badejo and Adekeye (2018) paid more mind on the impact of anchor

19
borrowers programme on poverty alleviation in Argungu local government area of Kebbi state.

All these researches tried to assess the impacts, challenges and better ways of handling these

programmes. It is on this background that this research is done to assess the impact of the

programme on rice production in Ushongo which is known for rice production in Benue state to

assess the impact of the programme.

A study conducted by Sambe, Korna and Yaga (2020) on the impact of Anchor Borrower

Programmeme on rice production. Their study found that there was an increase rice production

of beneficiaries compared to non beneficiaries. However, comparing production before and after

the programmeme among the beneficiaries, the study found no significant increase. This entails

that though there was increase in quantity of rice produced through the programmeme, the

increase was not significant. The study therefore concludes that Anchor Borrower progrmme did

not make significant contribution to rice production in Kwande Local Goverbment Area.

2.5 Factors Militating against Rice Production in Nigeria

There are a lot of challenging factors militating against or are associated with rice

production worldwide, although every geographic area has major issues to deal with. However,

the issues common to almost all places are; drought, poor soil fertility, availability of fertilizer,

soil salinity, pest and diseases, mechanization and availability of land.

Drought: Drought is a major constraint to rice production in Nigeria, most especially in northern

Nigeria, because it requires a lot of water for optimum growth and yield. Decreased rain fall

coupled with intermittent drought is a common feature in the tropical and sub-tropical savannas

(Mohammed et al., 2015). Rice requires about 1200 mm to 1600 mm of rainfall evenly

distributed throughout its growing period. This volume of rainfall is rare even in the southern

20
parts of the country that usually receive more rain than the northern parts. The severity of

drought is higher in the uplands than in the lowlands (FADAMAS), as the production of rice in

such areas is prone to yield reductions as a consequence of drought (Jeong et al., 2010). Drought

tolerant varieties developed through plant breeding are more accessible to farmers than costly

agronomic practices or irrigation enhancements that might require large investments by farmers

(Jeong et al., 2010; Zheng et al., 2010; Hu &Xiong, 2014;).

Poor soil fertility: Soil fertility in most places in Nigeria has progressively declined due

to increased pressure on land resources arising from rapid population increased pressure on land

resources arising from rapid population expansion, which is forcing farmers to adopt continuous

cropping coupled with the use of an inadequate amount of fertilizer or other soil amendments

(Kamai et al., 2020). Several studies have shown that most soils in Nigeria are deficient in

nutrients, being far below critical levels for the production of most crops, including rice. For

example, the total nitrogen present in soils ranges from 0.136 to 0.151% in the southern Guinea

savannah, from 0.16 to 0.194% in the northern Guinea savannah, and from 0.141 to 0.153% in

the Sudan savannah. Available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium are similarly low. There

is also widespread micronutrient deficiency across agro-ecologies of northern Nigeria for

instance, thereby indicating a need to avoid acid-forming fertilizers and a review of current

fertilizer formulations to include micronutrients to enhance rice yields in Northern Nigeria

(Kamai et al., 2020).

Availability of fertilizer: Fertilizer availability has been a pressing issue for a long time,

most especially in Nigeria, where the prices keep skyrocketing despite government intervention.

In 2016 both NPK 15:15:15 and Urea 50 kg bag was sold for up to six thousand Naira. This can

lead to a decline in the production of rice(Mohammed et al., 2015). Farmers are mindful of the

21
significance of fertilizers that is both organic and inorganic in farming activity (Ezui et al.,

2010).

Soil salinity:The value of crops and yield of soils with high contents of salts are reduced

significantly, thereby causing serious socioeconomic and environmental problems in the long

term (Munns, 2002; Chesworth, 2008). The amassing of salts from inappropriate soil and water

management is a very serious problem worldwide (Chesworth, 2008). To stop the loss of arable

land due to salt accumulation it is necessary to use appropriate soil and water management

practices (Chesworth, 2008).

Pest and diseases: Most of the local varieties of rice are vulnerable to pest and diseases.

The common diseases associated with rice include blast, rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) and

brown spot while common rice pest include Diopsis species, African Rice gall midge, short

horned grasshopper (Oxya sp.) birds, rice rats, and grain sucking insect pests (e.g. stink bug) (Sié

et al., 2008). Using disease resistant rice varieties and good cultural practices often limit

infection to most of the diseases. High nitrogen in the soil associated with little potassium can

increase blast damage. It is also advisable to split the application of nitrogen to reduce blast

damage. Removal of surrounding weeds can destroy the alternate host of RYMV (Sié et al.,

2008). Cultural practices such as early sowing, narrow spacing of plants, using scarecrow and

maintaining weed free field and the use of bio pesticides (DecisTM at1liter/hain500 liters of

water) can minimize pest damage. Others include rouging of infected plants and immediate

replanting, manually scaring the birds, tying old VHS tapes diagonally, installation of bird nets

when available, the use catapults and fencing with bamboo or chicken wire mesh or polythene

sheet to prevent rats and grass cutters from encroaching (Sié et al., 2008).

22
 Mechanization: Farm mechanization is a process of introduction and development of

mechanized support of all kinds at various levels of agricultural production in order to reduce

manual labour (IFPRI, 2010; Lamidi and Akande, 2013). Large scale farms in Nigeria are faced

with the following constraints to mechanization include: credit accessibility, inability of

entrepreneurs to set up manufacturing and repair services, lack of improved infrastructure,

inadequate complementary inputs due to high cost, such as electricity and fuel, inadequate legal

capacity to protect the rights of owners of machinery, and poor implementation of policies

(IFPRI, 2010; Lamidi and Akande, 2013).

Availability of land: Land is a very important factor in rice production despite the fact that

rice can be cultivated in shallow water. It has a significant role to play in increasing the quantity

of rice production as well as sustaining it (Ezra and Yahaya, 2012). In 2000, out of about 25

million hectares of land cultivated to various food crops, only about 6.37% was to rice giving an

average national yield of 1.47 tons per hectare (Ezra and Yahaya, 2012). A significant increase

of area used for the cultivation of rice was recorded between 2010 and 2017, from about 2.4

million ha to 3.2 million ha respectively (Erhie et al., 2018).

2.6 Strategies for increasing Rice Production in Nigeria

To increase rice production in Nigeria, the following should be the target areas of

intervention by the federal government.

Post-harvest Handling and Processing: Post-harvest and processing is the first priority of

the country because it is the bottleneck problem area in the value chain. Recent production

figures stood at 3.4 tonnes of paddy (2007) while estimated national processing capacity stood at

2.8 million tonnes of paddy. Total paddy requirement to meet national per capita consumption

23
of 30 kg/head/year is 6.5 million tonnes (4.2 million tonnes of milled rice). This will provide an

aggregate processing capacity gap of 3.7 million tonnes of paddy. Even if farmers increase

production the bottleneck of processing still remains. Excess un-milled rice discourages

production and results in heavy post-harvest losses. See Annex 5 for problem analysis of the rice

sector (NRDS, 2009).

Land Development and Irrigation: Land development and Irrigation is another priority

for the country. There is 3.14 million hectares of potential land for irrigation but only 47,799 ha

is under-utilization for rice. Since irrigated lowland has the highest rice yield potential ranging

from 6 - 9 tonnes/ha, attention would be directed at rehabilitating existing rice irrigation schemes

and developing new ones. Farmer cooperatives/groups will be trained and empowered to

manage and maintain these structures. Attention would also be given to clearing more land to

increase the area under lowland and upland rice cultivation (NRDS, 2009).

Seed Development and Other Production Inputs: The priority here will be to make

available to farmers sufficient quality seeds of high yielding rice varieties that are resistant to the

major pests and diseases in order to meet target yield potentials and increase production. In

order to further boost production, farmers require fertilizers and agrochemicals at the correct

time and at affordable prices. Measures would be put in place to ensure that the private sector is

the driving force behind input supply (NRDS, 2009).

Furthermore, Nigeria can increase its rice production, if farmers take some necessary steps

published by IRRI (2015). These are simple cultural practices designed to get better output rice

production, which might include the following.

24
 The Use of Crop Calendar: The picture of a typical growing season of rice is known as a

crop calendar. This begins from fallow, preparation of land, establishment, and maintenance

from planting to harvest and storage. Using a crop calendar makes planning farm activities, such

as organizing labour and securing good seeds and fertilizer more efficient thus decrease cost of

obtaining inputs and increase yields (IRRI, 2015).

Use of the Best Variety and Qualitative Seeds: The best variety is the variety suitable to

particular rice ecology. So farmers are advised to select a variety suitable to their farmland

ecology that is using an upland rice variety in an upland area or using a lowland variety in a low

land area. And it is best to use the variety that is popular with the consumers in the area, which

has a good yield potential and is resistant to diseases.

Seeds of high quality reduce the number of seeds to be planted, due to their viability and they

tend to produce healthy and strong seedlings with high yields. A qualitative seed is very clean

with no weed seed and stones. It contains grains of a particular variety with no obvious cracks.

Improved rice varieties such as FARO 44, NERICA 1 and NERICA 2 have showing promising

results in some studies carried out recently (Tollens et al., 2013)

Field Preparation: Before planting, fields should be levelled properly because level fields

tend to give high yield with lower cost and healthy uniform crops that have the ability to

withstand competition with weeds. It is good to use mouldboard or disc plough that kills weed

with a depth of 10 cm, if possible 6 - 8 weeks before planting. A tine harrow with a small size

clod should be used at least in twofold two or three weeks before planting. Bunds should be

prepared to retain water where necessary (IRRI, 2015).

25
 Time of Planting: Early planting makes the crop to compete better with weeds, avoid some

pests and grow fast with high yields. Nonetheless the appropriate time to start planting depends

on various factors, such as the ecology of the area, the availability of water in the case of

irrigation, variety and the ideal time of harvest (IRRI, 2015).

Weed Management: Weeds are capable of reducing yield as a result of the competition they

provide to rice plants. For a weed to accumulate 1 kg of dry matter, it means it has reduced 1 kg

of potential grain to be produced. The yield losses caused by weeds mostly occur within 20 - 50

days after establishment of the crop, which is why early weeding is necessary. It is also

important to weed immediately after initiation of panicle to prevent shedding caused by weeds

(IRRI, 2015).

When using herbicides, it is important to identify correctly the weed in order to use the right

herbicide base on the label recommendation. Herbicides are more effective when they are

applied to small weeds. Nonetheless pre-emergence herbicides can be applied before weeds are

established and post-emergence after weeds are established, but care must be taking to avoid

crop damage. It is necessary to wear protective clothing before spraying herbicides (IRRI, 2015).

Fertilizer Application: Almost all soil types provide little quantity of nutrients to crops,

which make fertilizer application necessary to increase yield. Fertilizers have the ability to

improve the physical conditions of the soil. It is assumed that a ton of crop grain will take away

about 15 kg of nitrogen (N), 2-3kg of phosphorus (P) and 15 -20 kg of potassium (K), although

this could be modified according to the type of soil, the condition of the crop, the season,

efficiency of application and weather conditions. The use of organic manure, straw, husk,

26
compost and plant leaves as fertilizer is encourage most especially at the nursery stage (Oikeh et

al., 2008; IRRI, 2015).

The recommended rate of fertilizer application ranges from 120 kg – 200 kg/ha of NPK

15:15:15 28 days after seedling emergence and 50 – 100kg of Urea/ha after panicle initiation.

However, upland rice ecology rice require more fertilizer application, that is 200kg of NPK

15:15:15 and 100 kg of Urea/ha. Applying high rate of fertilizer to local varieties is not

encouraged, because it can cause lodging. The application of fertilizer is usually done by

broadcasting method (ICS-Nigeria, 2010; IRRI, 2015).

Pest and Disease Management: An estimate of 37% of rice grain yield is lost to pest and

diseases annually. A part from accurate and timely diagnosis of diseases, good management of

crop can reduce losses significantly. Prevention is the best way to control pest and diseases.

Farmers can limit pest and diseases by cleaning equipment they use, using clean seeds and

resistance varieties, planting within two weeks window as your neighbour to reduce disease,

insects, rats and birds pressure on one field. Others ways includes encouraging pest natural

enemies by using pesticides conservatively, which include not applying within the first 40 days

of planting and following the recommendation of fertilizer application (IRRI, 2015).

Timely Harvest: It is very important to harvest rice on time in order to get maximum yield

with good grain quality. On the other hand if rice crop is harvested too early, many of the grains

will be unfilled or immature and immature grains easily break when milled and cannot be used as

seeds because they do not germinate. Late harvest cause heavy loss through bird attacks and

shattering of seeds. The best time to harvest rice is when 80 – 85% of the grains are coloured like

the straw and the grain moisture that is required is 20 – 22% and this is usually 30 days after

27
flower production. Ensure grains at the lower part of the panicle are not soft but hard. It is also

good to separate the panicles from each other after cutting and dry the grains soon after

threshing, preferably sun drying on tarpaulins (Oikeh et al., 2008; IRRI, 2015).

Storing and Milling: The best way to store rice is storing it with the husk, because it

provides some form of protection to the grains from insects and it also prevent the deterioration

of the grain quality. A good storing system ensures grains are protected from wet conditions,

rodents, birds and insects. It is also necessary to maintain the temperature of the storage system

to prolong seed life (IRRI, 2015).

Milling removes the husk and bran layer of rice to give the edible form. When grains with

poor quality are milled the product will be edible rice with poor quality. 13 – 14% is the best

moisture content for milling of grains with a temperature of 45oC. Various milling steps are

used, such as one – step, two – step and multi-stage milling but hand pounding with mortar and

pestle is discourage, because it produce a lot of broken rice (IRRI, 2015).

2.7 Theoretical Framework

Theories in sociology provide different perspectives with which to view, explain and

predict the social world. A perspective is simply a way of looking at the world. A theory is a set

of interrelated propositions or principles designed to answer a question or explain a particular

phenomenon (Mooney, Knox, and Schacht, 2007:1). For the purpose of this study, the impact of

anchor borrowers programme on rice production, the Structural Functionalist theory is adopted

and used for this study.

2.7.1The Structural Functionalist Theory

28
 Functionalism dates back to the works of August Comte (1798-1857) and Herbert

Spencer (1820-1903). It was developed and refined respectively by Emile Durkheim (1858-

1917) and Talcott Parsons (1902-1979). Functionalism was the dominant social theory in

American Sociology during the 1940s and 1950s.

Functionalism (also called structural-functionalism) as a theoretical perspective in

sociology holds a view of society as a social system that is made up of different parts which are

interdependent and interrelated. These different parts of society, namely, farmers, banks, the

family, the School, Church, Government, Economy etc. performs various functions (i.e. produce

positive effects) towards the maintenance, stability and survival of the social system (Idyorough

2002:3).

Functionalists equate the human society with the human organism i.e. the human person.

Biologists argue that every organism possesses a structure, that is, a set of interrelated

components such as heart, limbs, and belly and that each of these component parts has a function

to perform for the maintenance of the whole system i.e. the living organism. They also argue that

parts of the organism cannot be understood in isolation; that is to understand each component

part of the organism requires understanding it in relation to the whole organism. That is, in terms

of the function which that part performs for the whole system (Haralambos and Hornes 2007).

Functionalists like Herbert Spencer took a cue from such organismic analogy and

developed a view of human society which sees it as a ‘structure’ made up of interrelated parts.

Each part e.g. (farmers, banks, manufacturing, the police, the political system, the military, and

the civil service) has a function that contributes to the overall well-being and stability of the

society. Functionalism also holds the view that to understand any part of the society involves an

examination of its relationship to other parts in terms of its contribution to the overall

29
maintenance of the society. According to functionalism, human society has certain basic needs

called ‘functional prerequisites’.

These are the needs for adaptation, goal maintenance, integration, and pattern

maintenance, which imply the need for food and shelter; setting of societal goals and allocating

resources to achieve them; conflict resolution; substance abuse, and maintenance of societal

values respectively. These needs are met by the economic system, the political system, the law

enforcement agencies, the legal system, and finally, jointly by the religious, family and

educational systems respectively. For society to survive, these functional prerequisite must be

met (Eddieflyod 2003).

Functionalist theory views society as an organized, stable and well-integrated system held

together by value consensus, that is, common values and norms collectively shared by all

members of society or at least a vast majority of members. Being a system strives always to be in

a state of interrelated and interconnected parts, the social system strives always to be in a state of

equilibrium for example, to maintain a substantial degree fit among its parts. In order to achieve

this balance or to maintain equilibrium at any point in time, a change in one part of the system

normally tends to provoke changes in every other part, and the system as a whole. Changes in the

political institution lead to changes in the economy which lead to changes in the religious and

family institutions just to mention a few (Eddieflyod 2003).

The main task of functionalist theory is to explain how social life is made possible. As

has been hinted, for any system to survive, a certain degree of fit or compatibility (i.e.

integration) between parts of the system is mandatory. Functionalists believe that a certain

degree of order and stability are essential for society to survive. They claim that such order,

stability in society is derive from commonly shared values and norms. Values consensus also

30
provides the basis for social order, stability, social unity, and social solidarity since individuals

tend to identify with those who share the same ideas with themselves. Value consensus also

provides the basis for social cooperation because common values give rise to common goals.

When people share common goals they tend to cooperate in the process of pursing those goals.

For functionalists, value consensus is a key concept to an understanding of society. And

according to these theorists, value consensus is maintained in society through the processes of

socialization whereby value orientations are disseminated and transmitted from one generation to

another. The basic approach of functionalist analysis in the explanation of society or aspects of

it, is to show the functions which social processes, social traits, elements, institutions, or systems

etc. perform in society in relation to collective goals of society (Eddieflyod 2003).

In relating this theory to the impact of anchor borrower programmeme on rice production,

functionalist believes that, social systems have set norms and values which each and every one is

supposed to follow to achieve desired stability. The theorists believes that society is a social

system that is made up of different parts (institutions) like the Church, Family and Schools,

which are interdependent and interrelated, all these parts work or should work together in

harmony to maintain balance and social equilibrium. For example, farmer cooperatives work

tirelessly to produce food which is an essential commodity, the government gives an enabling

environment for businesses to strive, banks issue out loans for entrepreneurs to flourish,

nurturing and socialization of children is done by the family, moral guidance is provided by

religion, norms/values or laws are enacted by the legislature. This synergy is aimed at

maintaining peace and stability for the growth and development of the society.

The theory asserts that, a change in one part of the system normally will result in change

in every part of the system. In this light, the absence or low food production by farmers could

31
adversely affect other parts of the society like the family, health, government, school just to

mention a few. Towing the same lane, absence of loans from banks, government interventions

may also affect other parts of the society.

Absence of farmers, and lending institutions can result to social problems like

malnourishment, crime and poverty, these are viewed to be ‘dysfunctional’ to community

stability, growth and development. Other parts of the society like, the family, lending

institutions, government, school etc. should cordially liaise with the farmers to enable the society

to be stable. Due to structural functionalist effective/sufficient explanation of the subject matter;

it was adopted by the researcher to explain the topic.

32
 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.1Introduction

This chapter dwells on the research methodology of the study. It gives an insight into the

research design, study area, study population, sample size and its determination formula,

sampling technique and procedure, method of data collection, method of data analysis and

limitations of the study

3.2 Research Design

The researcher employed a cross sectional survey research design to collect and analyze

data collected from the field. Survey research design was adopted for this study. This was due to

its wide scope, this research design is extensive and its findings are generalized on the entire

population.

3.3 Area of the Study

Ushongo local government was created in May 1989 by the Babangida administration.

The local government derives its name from Ushongo Hills located at Ushongo town in

Mbayegh District with its headquarters at Lessel. The local government is located between

latitude 70, the local government in terms of boundaries by the North: Gboko Local Government

Area and Buruku Local Governments Area, South: Vandeikya Local Government Area, East:

Kwande Local Government Area, and West: Konshisha Local Government Area.

The local government area is said to be housing about 123,166 (26th November 1991

census), about 191,935 (21st March 2006 census) currently it is estimated to be housing 259,100

by National Population Commission and the National Bureau of Statistics (2016). Ushongo has

Eleven (11) council wards:Mbagir council ward, Mbakuta council ward, Mbakuha council ward,

33
Mbagba council ward, Atirkyese council ward, Mbaaka council ward, Mbaivende council ward.

Agriculture is the mainstay of the people’s economy. With predominantly local tools,

agricultural products are produced in varying degrees across the local government area. In more

cases, such products serve a dual purpose as both cash and food crops. Indeed, just as Benue

State is regarded as the food basket of the nation, Ushongo may well pass as the food basket of

Benue State.

Agricultural products produced in commercial quantities in the area include: Fruits,

Grains, and Tubers. Citrus fruits and mangoes are the principal products of Ushongo people.

Indeed, Ushongo local government is the singular largest producer of citrus fruits in the whole of

Benue State. The large orange plantations in Mbakuha, Mbagba and Atirkyese wards/districts are

particularly capable of supporting and sustaining juice factories. Grains such as: Rice, Maize,

Sorghum, Groundnuts, Bambara nuts, and Soybeans are also produced by the people in large

commercial quantities capable of supporting and sustaining agro-allied industries. In terms of

mineral resources, Barites exists in very large commercial quantities in Mbagir and Mbakuta

wards/districts. Already, such stones are being mined in small quantities for commercial

purposes. High quality marble exists in large commercial quantities at the Ushongo Hills in

Mbayegh district.

It is now confirmed that large quantities of clay exists at AnwoGbor in Mbaaka District

capable of supporting and sustaining a ceramic industry. Consequent upon the absence of any

such industry, such clay has since time immemorial been the source for clay that supports and

sustains local pottery works by women in that part of Ushongo.

34
 The climate is tropically sub humid with daily temperature of about 32c, while the annual

rain fall is between 1200-1600mm. Rainy season starts from April to October while dry season

starts from November to March. Harmattan is experienced from early December to late January.

3.4 Study Population

Ushongo local government area according to the National Population Commission of

Nigeria (NPCN) year 2016 projection consists of 259, 100 inhabitants. The target population for

this research covers all persons residing within Ushongo. Due to high population of Ushongo

400 persons are selected statistically through the use of Taro Yamane formula.

3.5 Sample Size Determination

Taro Yamane’s formula was employed to determine sample size of four hundred

respondents for the research work as demonstrated below;

Where ：

n= sample size required

N = number of people in the population

e = level of precision (0.05)

The population of Ushongo as projected by the National Population

Commission of Nigeria in the year 2016 is consisting of 259,100

inhabitants.

From the formula

Where n is the desired sample

35
 N is the population size and ME is the margin of error allowed in the

determination of the sample size.

259,100 259,100
n= 2 n= n= 399
1+ 259,100(0.005) 1+ 259,100(0.0025)

3.6 Sampling Technique and Procedure

The research adopted multi-stage sampling; there are cluster and simple random sampling

techniques for the general population. Also, purposive sampling technique was used to select key

informants. The cluster sampling technique was employed by the researcher to gather diverse

opinions from residents of the study area through a simple random technique to allow equal

selection of respondents.

The research used the eleven council wards of Ushongo local area as clusters; thirty six

(36) persons were reached in each of the council ward. To have equal representation the research

went further to use the five kindred’s found in the wards as sub-unit with seven (7)

questionnaires each through a simple random sampling technique, making the total number of

three hundred and ninety nine (399) respondents.

In each of the five (5) sub-clusters of a cluster, balloting system which had numbers

ranging from one to seven and above depending on the number of target group present in each

locality was adopted, these numbers were written, folded and dropped in a polythene bag and

those who picked one to seven were engaged for the research. In each of the first cluster which

in this case is the council ward, thirty six (36) respondents were raised making a total of three

hundred and ninety nine (399) responds in the five (5) clusters.

3.7 Method of Data Collection

36
 In reaching the selected population, the researcher employed the use of two methods of

data collections, they include:

3.7.1 Questionnaire

The researcher visited the selected areas and directly issued out questionnaires to

respondents with the assistance of a research attendant. The researcher also, assisted those who

were unable to read or write and waited for others to complete and return at each visit. The

administration took over three weeks before the researcher was able to issue out and receive all

questionnaires.

3.7.2 In-depth Interview

In trying to have an insider’s view on issues relating to this research, the researcher

conducted an in-depth interview with three key informants, they are; the head of Agriculture

department of Ushongo Local Government Area, and two chairmen of rice farmers cooperatives

at ushongo local government area to obtain an in-depth information regarding the research. The

researcher visited the key informant’s offices after seeking the consent of the staff, at their

convenient venue and time, the researcher conducted an in-depth interview. Basic tools used in

collecting the data include, a tape recorder, biro, and jotter. In-depth interview was chosen

against other methods of data collections because, the semi structured interview guide was

flexible and it helped the researcher to probe related issues that were unclear. Also, the body

language of the respondents gave insight to certain issues.

3.8 Method of Data Analysis

The data collected through a questionnaire and in-depth interview for this study were

analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data from questionnaires was

37
analyzed and presented in frequency tables and simple percentages while qualitative data from

key respondents was transcribed with responses of key informants in line with the objectives of

the study.

3.9 Field Work Experience/Limitations

This study was supposed to be undertaken in the whole of the Nigerian society, but due

to:

Financial Constraints: Finance is one of the reasons why the research did not cover the

entire Nation. Despite narrowing down to a local government area, challenges were faced mostly

in the aspect of typing the work, production and design of the questionnaires, administering of

questionnaire and also binding of the work. Despite this challenge, the researcher was aided by

family and friends with financial aid to support this project to become a success,

Time limit: For this work to come out as a good research project, adequate time is

required, but on the contrary the time given for this work was limited. The researcher prioritized

the research work above other endeavours.

Poor responses and ignorance of respondents: Due to the nature of the research, some

respondents refused to answer and return the questionnaires issued to them. The challenge was

surmounted through dialogue.

38
 CHAPTER FOUR

DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS

4.1 Introduction

This chapter deals with the presentation, analysis and discussion of findings gathered in

the field with the use of a questionnaire and in-depth interview to refute or confirm the earlier set

assumptions as well as discuss findings to meet the objectives of this study. A total of 399

questionnaires were issued out to respondents and three key informants were interviewed in three

different areas of the area of coverage of the research.

4.2 Socio-Demographic Attributes of Respondents

In this section, the socio-demographic attributes of respondents examined include; Sex,

Age, Marital Status, Educational Attainment, and Occupation. The distribution of socio-

demographic variables with reference to the population under study is as follows:

Table 4.2.1 Distribution of Respondents by Sex

Sex Frequency Percentage (%)

Male 242 60.7

Female 157 39.3
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The above table show the sex of respondents reached by the research. The table show

242(60.7%) were males while 157 (39.3%) were females. This shows that more men took part in

the research.

39
Table 4.2.2 Distribution of Respondents by Age
Age Frequency Percentage (%)

25 below 4 1
26-39 310 77.7
40 Above 85 21.3
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above contains the age brackets of respondents employed for this research. The

table show that 4 (1%) were between the age bracket of 25 below, while 310 (77.7%) were

between the ages of 26-39 years. The table also show that 85 (21.3%) were 40 years and above.

Conclusively, this shows that people (youths) between the ages of 26-39 years were involved

more in the study than any other age bracket.

Table 4.2.3 Distribution of Respondents by Marital Status

Marital Status Frequency Percentage (%)

Single 110 27.7

Married 237 59.3
Divorced/Separated 50 12.5
Widowed/ Widower 2 0.5
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The above table contains the marital status reached with a questionnaire for the research.

110 (27.7%) were single, 237 (59.3%) were married, while 50 (12.5%) fall under the category of

Divorced/ separated. 2 (0.5%) were Widows/Widower. This shows that married persons took

part in the research than other categories of persons.

Table 4.2.4 Distribution of Respondents by Educational Attainment

40
Educational attainment Frequency Percentage (%)

Informal 214 53.6

Primary 45 11.3
Secondary 98 24.6
Tertiary 42 10.5
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show educational attainment of respondents. 214 (53.6%) were from the

informal sector, 45 (11.3%) were primary school leavers, and 98 (24.6%) were secondary school

graduates. 42 (10.5%) obtained tertiary education. This shows that people with informal

education were involved more in the research than any other category of educational attainment.

Table 4.2.5 Distribution of Respondents by Occupation

Occupation Frequency Percentage (%)

Farming 279 70
Teaching 30 7.6
Artisan 20 5
Trading 25 6.3
Others 45 11.2
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents occupation. 279 (70%) were farmers, 30 (7.6%) were

teachers, 20 (5%) were artisan, 25 (6.3%) were traders, and others were 45(11.2%). This shows

that more farmers were involved in the research.

4.3 Varieties of Rice Produced in Ushongo Local Government Area

41
 The category of respondents whose respondents are being presented here include selected

rice farmers in Ushongo local government area and three relevant stakeholders in rice production

within the area of the study, namely; the Head of agriculture Department Ushongo local

government area, two chairmen of farmer cooperative within the area of the study. The research

sought to find out from the respondents the varieties of rice produced. Information’s obtained

from key informant are transcribed below.

Table 4.3.1 Major Varieties of Rice Produced in Ushongo local Government Area before

Anchor Borrowers Programmeme Intervention

Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

Shallow swan faro 190 47.6

Upland faro 106 26.6
Deep flooded faro 103 25.8
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents’ view on major rice varieties produce in Ushongo

before ABP intervention. 190(47.6%) assert that shallow swan faro rice was the variety of rice

produce, 106(26.6%) opined that upland faro rice is the variety of rice produce, and 103 (25.8%)

agreed that deep flooded faro is the variety of rice produce. From the table it is shown that

shallow swan faro is the major variety of rice produced in Ushongo local government before

ABP intervention.

42
Table 4.3.2 Major Varieties of Rice Produced in Ushongo local Government Area After

Anchor Borrowers Programme Intervention

Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

Shallow swan faro 199 49.9

Upland faro 110 27.6
Deep flooded faro 90 22.5
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents’ view on major ricevarieties produce in Ushongo after

ABP intervention. 199(49.9%) assert that shallow swan faro rice was the variety of rice produce

after ABP intervention, 110(27.6%) opined that upland faro rice is the variety of rice produce

after ABP intervention, and 90 (22.5%) agreed that deep flooded faro is the variety of rice

produce after ABP intervention. From the table it is shown that shallow swan faro is the major

variety of rice produced in Ushongo local government after ABP intervention.

A key informant said; we produce rice not because we have the seedlings available, but

due to yield and market value of the variety of the rice. That’s why we cultivate shallow swan

faro taking in to account our dependence on rain.

Another informant said; we believe in our known variety than this government varieties.

43
4.4 Impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on Rice Production in Ushongo Local

Government Area.

This section is aimed at ascertaining the Impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on Rice

Production in Ushongo Local Government Area.

Table 4.4.1 Respondents View on Whether They Belong to Any Farmer cooperative Society
Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 381 97.7

No 9 2.3
Total 390 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents on whether they belong to any farmer cooperative

society. 381 (97.7%) were said to be members of farmer cooperative society, 9 (2.3%) were not

members of a farmer cooperative society. This shows that more member of farmer cooperative

societies were involved in the research.

All key informants agreed that they are members of a farmer cooperative society. Two of them

said; I am even the chairman of our cooperative.

Table 4.4.2 Awareness about the Anchor Borrower Programmeme

Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 339 85
No 60 15
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents on whether they have heard of Anchor Borrower

Programme. It was established that, 339 (85%) were aware of ABP, while 60 (15%) opined that

they were not aware of the programme in their locality. This shows that more people who are

aware of ABP were involved in the research. Key informants all agreed that they heard about the

44
programme. A key informant asserted that; when I heard about the programme I knew it will not

reach a common man.

Table 4.4.3 Ratings on the Impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on rice production
Within Their Area
Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

High 5 1.3
Moderate 100 25
Low 294 73.7
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show respondents view on impact of Anchor Borrower Programme in

Ushongo local government area of Benue state. 5 (1.3%) rated the ABP as highly impactful.

while, 100 (25%) were of the opinion that the programme was moderately impactful. 294

(73.7%) perceived that the programme had no significant impact in their area. From the above

position, it shows that the programme was not impactful in ushongo local government area.

A key informant said; the programme could have been so impactful but it seems it was hijacked

by our greedy politician. Another informant said; the government and implementing partners

were focus in some parts of the country than our area.

Table 4.4.4 Number of Bags Produced by farmers Before Anchor Borrower

Programmemme Intervention.
Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

1-5bags 140 35
6-10bags 211 53
11 bags above 48 12
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

45
 The table above show the number of bags produced before Anchor Borrower Programme

intervention. 140 (35%) harvested 1-5 bags a year, while, 211 (53%) harvested 6-10 bags

annually. It was also established that, 48 (12%) harvested above 11 bags of rice annually. From

the research, it is established that before the ABP intervention farmers were mostly harvesting 6-

10 bags of rice annually.

Table 4.4.5 Respondents View on The Number of Bags Produced After ABP Anchor

Borrower Programme Intervention.

Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

1-5bags 130 33
6-10bags 120 30
11 bags above 149 37
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show the number of bags produced after Anchor Borrower Programme

intervention. 130 (33%) harvested 1-5 bags a year, while, 120 (30%) harvested 6-10 bags

annually. It was also established that, 149 (37%) harvested about 11 bags of rice annually. From

the research, it is established that after the ABP intervention farmers were mostly harvesting 11

bags above of rice annually. This shows a slight upward harvest of rice.

Key informant employed for the research unanimously agreed that; rice production increase

after ABP but according to them it’s because high demands for food and rice particularly.

46
4.5. Factors Militating Against the Effective Implementation of Anchor Borrower

Programme in Ushongo Local Government Area

This section is aimed at ascertaining the militating factors against the effective

implementation of Anchor Borrower Programme on Rice Production in Ushongo Local

Government Area.

Table 4.5.1 Distribution of Respondents Views on the Factors Militating Against the
Effective Implementation of Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushongo Local Government
Area
Variable Frequency Percentage (%)

Corruption 279 70
Publicity 30 7.5
Tedious procedures 20 5
Lack of inputs 25 6.3
Cost of hiring land 30 7.5
Lack and high cost of 15 3.7
labourers
Total 399 100

Source: Field Survey, 2020

The table above show the militating factors against the effective implementation of ABP.

279 (70%) respondents opined that corruption is a militating factor, 30 (7.5%) of the respondents

asserted that poor publicity is a militating factor, 20 (5%) were of the position that tedious

procedures of accessing ABP is a militating factor against the effective implementation of the

programme in Ushongo local government area, 25 (6.3%) believed that lack of farm inputs like

fertilizers, herbicides etc. work against the programme. 30(7.5%) were of the view that cost

hiring land for cultivating is a militating factor and 15(3.7%) was of the opinion that lack of

labourers is a factor that worked against the implementation of the programme.

47
 This shows that majority of respondents believe that corruption is a militating factor

against the effective implementation of ABP in Ushongo local government area.

Key informant said; when we heard about the ABP initiative, we tried accessing the loan but we

were played around till dry season. The programme is a way to enrich politicians.

Another informant said; poor implementation militated against the effectiveness of the

programme, could you imagine we were hearing rumour that inputs are available but till now I

have not seen a bottle of herbicide.

In other to see that Anchor Borrower Programme is effectively implemented to give the

desired impact within Ushongo local government and beyond, the following recommendations

were made; corruption should be reduced to its barest level to enable real farmers to access such

loans. Again, publicity of loans/grants should be done on radios and other local media rather than

using national television and diaries. Easier ways of obtaining loans/grants from government

should be put in place to enable rural dwellers to also access such loans/grants.

Farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicide, improved seeds, pesticides, even, finance and

trainings should be done timely to enable farmers swing in to action as of when due. Respondent

and key informants also recommended that, better farming practices should be encouraged

among farmers, mechanized agriculture will take away scarcity of labourers and cost of hiring

labourers as well as increase work done.

48
4.6 Discussion of Findings

Researches all over the global are carried out to add to knowledge, affirm or refute

assertions and theories postulated by other researchers. In this research work the researcher did

justice to the impact Anchor Borrower Programme on rice production in Ushongo local

government area of Benue state, Nigeria. Below are the findings of the study.

Findings from questionnaire agreed that the prevalent varieties of rice cultivated are;

shallow swam faro 1, 5,6,7,8 and 12 followed by upland faro 3, 11 and the deep flooded faro 4

and 9 were the least cultivated before and after ABP intervention. Farmers said due to

dependence on rain, market value, trusts in the seedling are the reasons why these varieties are

produced till now. These varieties are in agreement with varieties of rice identified by Udemezua

and Agwu, (2018).

It was found that majority of respondents heard of Anchor Borrower Programme. About

85% were aware of the programmeme, only 15% were not aware of the programme in their

locality. In assessing the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushong local government

area of Benue state, it was established that the programme was not impactful in ushongo local

government area only 1.3% rated the ABP as highly impactful, while, 73.7% perceived that the

programme had no significant impact in their area. Towing the same vein, key informant

interview corroborated that the programmeme could have been so impactful but it seems it was

hijacked by our greedy politician. Another informant said; the government and implanting

partners were focus in some parts of the country than our area. These assertions clearly showed

that the interdependent and interrelated parts for example; funding agencies, farmers and

government who were responsible to seeing that the programme is effective implemented failed

49
and this was dysfunctional to general society as asserted by Idyorough (2002) in explaining

functionalism.

The research also tried to find whether there was a harvest difference before and after the

programme. It was established that number of bags produced before Anchor Borrower

Programme intervention were mostly 53% of the respondents 6-10 bags harvested annually.

It was also established that, 12% of the respondents harvested about 11 bags of rice annually.

From the research, it is established that before the ABP intervention farmers were mostly

harvesting 1-5 bags of rice annually. It is established that after the ABP intervention farmers

were mostly harvesting 11 bags above of rice annually. This shows a slight upward harvest of

rice. Key informant interviews unanimously agreed that; rice production increase after ABP but

according to them it’s because high demands for food and rice particularly.

The research found the militating factors against the effective implementation of ABP to

include; corruption, poor publicity, tedious procedures of accessing ABP is a militating factor

against the effective implementation of the programme in Ushongo local government area. Also,

lack of farm inputs like fertilizers, herbicides etc work against the programme, cost hiring land

for cultivating, lack of labourers and lack of labourers around is a factor that worked against the

implementation of the programme. Amongst these militating factors, majority of respondents

believed that corruption most is a militating factor against the effective implementation of ABP

in Ushongo local government area.

In other to see that Anchor Borrower Programme is effectively implemented to give the

desired impact within Ushongo local government and beyond, the following recommendations

were made; corruption should be reduced to its barest level to enable real farmers to access such

loans. Again, publicity of loans/grants should be done on radios and other local media rather than

50
using national television and diaries. Easier ways of obtaining loans/grants from government to

enable rural dwellers to also access such loans/grants. Farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicide,

improved seeds, pesticides, even, finance and trainings should be done timely to enable farmers

swing in to action as of when due. Respondent and key informants also recommended that, better

farming practices should be encouraged among farmers, mechanized agriculture will take away

scarcity of labourers and cost of hiring labourers as well as increase work done.

51
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Introduction

This chapter forms the concluding part of the study. The first part of the chapter gives a

brief summary of the chapters and finding, followed by conclusion and finally recommendations

on the impact of Anchor borrower Programme on rice production in Ushongo local government

area. The conclusion and recommendations are strictly based on the findings and analysis.

5.2 Summary

This study analyses the impact of Anchor borrower Programme on rice production in

Ushongo local government area. To achieve this, the study was divided into five chapters. The

study began with an introductory chapter, which covers the statement of problem, research

questions, objectives of the study, research assumption; significance of the study, the scope of

the research, and limitations of the study was covered in the first chapter.

The second chapter of the research covered literature review and theoretical framework,

in the review of literature, varieties of rice produced, impact of Anchor Borrower Programme,

militating factors against the effective implementation and recommendation. The research

adopted structural functionalist theory to explain the issue at hand.

The third chapter of the research dwelt on the methodology; the research employed

survey research design, and selected 399 respondents through Taro Yamene formula to

participate in the research. The research adopted multi-stage cluster sampling and purposive

sampling to select key informants who are leaders of farmer cooperatives and a head of

52
agriculture department Ushongo local government area. A five section questionnaire was used to

collect data from general public while in-depth-interview was used to collect data from three key

informants.

The collected data was analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The quantitative data

was represented in frequencies and percentages with the use of a tally sheet and a calculating

machine while the qualitative data was transcribed. The challenges faced in course of the

research like financial constraint and time limit were all surmounted through assistance of

friends and family members and extra efforts were put in by the researcher.

The fourth chapter dwelt on data presentation, analysis and discussion of findings. The

chapter tabulated the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents. On completion of

analysis of the empirical data, the respondents employed for this research agreed that the

prevalent varieties of rice cultivated are; shallow swam faro 1, 5,6,7,8 and 12 followed by upland

faro 3, 11 and the deep flooded faro 4 and 9 were the least cultivated before and after ABP

intervention. Farmers said due to dependence on rain, market value, trusts in the seedling are the

reasons why these varieties are produced till now.

The research also found that majority of respondents heard of Anchor Borrower

Programme. Majority were aware and only few were not aware of the existence of the

programme in their locality. In assessing the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushong

local government area of Benue state, it was established that the programme was not impactful in

ushongo local government area only few respondents rated the ABP as highly impactful, while

majority perceived that the programme had no significant impact in their area. The research also

tried to find whether there was a harvest difference before and after the programme. It was

established that number of bags produced before Anchor Borrower Programme intervention were

53
mostly 6-10 bags harvested annually but after the ABP intervention farmers were mostly

harvesting 11 bags above of rice annually. This shows a slight upward harvest of rice. This

position was argued that there was a general high demands for food and rice particularly across

the nation.

The research found the militating factors against the effective implementation of ABP to

include; corruption, poor publicity, tedious procedures of accessing ABP is a militating factor

against the effective implementation of the programme in Ushongo local government area. Also,

lack of farm inputs like fertilizers, herbicides etc. work against the programme, cost hiring land

for cultivating, lack of labourers and lack of labourers around is a factor that worked against the

implementation of the programme. Amongst these militating factors, majority of respondents

believed that corruption most militating factor against the effective implementation of ABP in

Ushongo local government area.

In other to see that Anchor Borrower Programme is effectively implemented to give the

desired impact within Ushongo local government and beyond, the following recommendations

were made; corruption should be reduced to its barest level to enable real farmers to access such

loans. Again, publicity of loans/grants should be done on radios and other local media rather than

using national television and diaries. Easier ways of obtaining loans/grants from government to

enable rural dwellers to also access such loans/grants. Farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicide,

improved seeds, pesticides, even, finance and trainings should be done timely to enable farmers

swing in to action as of when due. Other suggestions included encouraging better farming

practices among farmers, while mechanized agriculture was also suggested to take away scarcity

of labourers and cost of hiring labourers as well as increase work done.

5.3 Conclusion

54
 At the completion of the research it was concluded that the prevalent varieties of rice

cultivated are; shallow swam faro 1, 5,6,7,8 and 12 followed by upland faro 3, 11 and the deep

flooded faro 4 and 9 were the least cultivated before and after ABP intervention. Farmers said

due to dependence on rain, market value, trusts in the seedling are the reasons why these

varieties are produced till now.

The research concluded that majority of respondents heard of Anchor Borrower

Programme. In assessing the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme in Ushong local

government area of Benue state, it was concluded that the programmeme was not impactful in

Ushongo local government area.

The research concluded that after the ABP intervention farmers were mostly harvesting

11 bags above of rice annually. This shows a slight upward harvest of rice, this increase was

said to be due to high demands for food and rice particularly.

The research concluded on the following as the militating factors against the effective

implementation of ABP to include; corruption, poor publicity, tedious procedures of accessing

ABP. Also, lack of farm inputs like fertilizers, herbicides etc. work against the programme, cost

hiring land for cultivating, lack of labourers and lack of labourers around is a factor that worked

against the implementation of the programme. Amongst these militating factors, it was

concluded that corruption is the most militating factor against the effective implementation of

ABP in Ushongo local government area.

In other to see that Anchor Borrower Programme is effectively implemented to give the

desired impact within Ushongo local government and beyond. At the conclusion of the research

the following recommendations were made; corruption should be reduced to its barest level to

55
enable real farmers to access such loans. Again, publicity of loans/grants should be done on

radios and other local media rather than using national television and diaries.

Easier ways of obtaining loans/grants from government to enable rural dwellers to also

access such loans/grants. Farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicide, improved seeds, pesticides,

even, finance and trainings should be done timely to enable farmers swing in to action as of

when due. Respondent and key informants also recommended that, better farming practices

should be encouraged among farmers, mechanized agriculture will take away scarcity of

labourers and cost of hiring labourers as well as increase work done.

5.4 Recommendations

From the findings of the study, it is pertinent to make recommendations on the analysis made

on the impact of Anchor Borrower Programme on rice production in Ushongo local government

area. The recommendations are as follows:

1. Corruption should be reduced to its barest level to enable real farmers to access such

loans.

2. Publicity of loans/grants should be done on radios and other local media rather than

using national television and diaries.

3. Easier ways of obtaining loans/grants from government to enable rural dwellers to also

access such loans/grants.

4. Farm inputs such as fertilizers, herbicide, improved seeds, pesticides, even, finance and

trainings should be done timely to enable farmers swing in to action as of when due.

56
5. Better farming practices should be encouraged among farmers, mechanized agriculture

will take away scarcity of labourers and cost of hiring labourers as well as increase work

done.

57
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 APPENDIX: QUESTIONNAIRE

University of Mkar, Mkar,

Sociology Department,
P. M. B. 017,
Gboko,
Benue State.
22nd October, 2020.
Dear Respondent,

The researcher is a postgraduate student of the department of Sociology, University of Mkar,

Mkar Gboko Benue state. He is currently conducting a research work on the topic; “The Impact
of Anchor Borrowers Programme on Rice Production: A case of Ushongo Local
Government Area of Benue State”. The research is part of the requirements for the award of
Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Sociology.

You have been scientifically chosen as one of the respondents for this study. The information you
will provide is only for the purpose of this research work and will be treated with strict
confidentiality, note also that it has no negative consequences so, feel free to answer the questions
as provided in the questionnaire please.

The researcher will be grateful if you can respond to the following questions, kindly tick or fill
appropriately please.

Yours Faithfully,

Anchor Borrowers Programmeme.

Please tick appropriately, the option that suites you most. For instance, [ √ ] or you may write

where necessary.

Section A: Demographic Data

1. Sex: Male [ ] Female [ ]

2. Age: 25 and below [ ] 26-39[ ] 40 and above [ ]

3. Marital status: Single [ ] Married [ ] Divorce [ ] Widow/Widower [ ]

4. Educational attainment: Informal education [ ] Primary education [ ]

Secondary education [ ] Tertiary education [ ]

62
 5. Occupation: Farmer [ ] Civil servant [ ] Artisan [ ] Trader [ ] Others

(Specify)…………………………………………………….…..

Section B: Varieties of Rice Produced in Ushongo Local Government Area

6. What are the varieties you produced before ABP intervention?

i. ……………………………

ii. ……………………………

iii. ……………………………

iv. ……………………………

v. …………………………..

7. What are the varieties you produced after ABP intervention?

________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Section C: Impact of ABP on Rice Production Ushongo Local Government Area

8. Are you a member of a farmer cooperative society in your locality?

Yes [ ] No [ ]

9. Have you heard of the Anchor Borrowers Programmeme?

Yes [ ] No [ ]

10. If yes, rate the impact of the programmeme to you and your locality?

High [ ] Moderate [ ] Low [ ]

11. How many bags of rice did you cultivate before ABP intervention?

1-5bags [ ] 6-10bags [ ] 11bags above [ ]

12. How many bags of rice did you cultivate after ABP intervention?

13. 1-5bags [ ] 6-10bags [ ] 11bags above [ ]

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Section D: Factors Militating against ABP on Rice Production

14. List the factors militating against effective implementation of ABP in your locality?

i. …………………………..

ii. …………………………..

iii. ……………………………

iv. …………………………….

v. ……………………………

Section E: How to Increase Rice Production through ABP in Ushongo LGA

15. Recommend ways through which rice production programmemes will be effectively

increased through ABP in your locality?

i. ……………………………………………………………………………………...

ii. ……………………………………………………………………………………...

iii. ……………………………………………………………………………………...

iv. ……………………………………………………………………………………...

……………………………………………………………………………………...

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 APPENDIX II

In-depth Interview

Dear Key Informant

I am conducting a study on the impact of ABP on rice production in Ushongo LGA. I therefore

solicit your indulgence respond to This questions please feel free to provide information needed

as it will be used only for the academic exercise.

1. What variety of rice do you cultivate before and after ABP?

2. In your opinion, has the ABP significantly improve rice Production in your area?

3. What do you think are the challenges of ABP in increasing rice production in your area?

4. Suggest how ABP can increase rice production in your community.

65