EFFECT OF CROP DIVERSIFICATION ON THE LIVELIHOOD OF ARABLE CROP FARMERS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the effect of crop diversification on the livelihood of arable crop farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. Using a three-stage sampling technique, primary cross-sectional data were collected from 208 respondents via a well-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that farmers in the study area were predominantly experienced middle-aged farmers with an average of 20 years of farming experience and 44 years of age. Most had a land size of less than 5ha, with the average being 6.5ha, and mostly had secondary education. Most of the farmers (67.8%) diversified into cereals, legumes and tubers for proper risk management. Multiple regression revealed that the number of crops grown (p=0.014), diversification into cereal and legumes (p=0.063), diversification into cereals and tubers (p=0.001), household size (p=0.010), level of education (p=0.040), and access to extension service (p=0.006) all have a significant positive impact on farmers' livelihood. The study concludes that crop diversification significantly improves livelihood outcomes and recommends that extension access, credit access, education, and climate-resilient policies should be prioritized to promote sustainable adoption among arable crop farmers in Kwara State.