Food Security Status and Coping Strategies of Farming Households in Taraba State, North East Nigeria

Food insecurity among farming households in the North East geopolitical zone of Nigeria has been exacerbated by conflict, climate variability, and poor agricultural infrastructure. This study assessed the food security status and coping strategies of farming households in Taraba State, North East Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and structured interview schedules to collect data from 220 farming households across three local government areas. Respondents were selected through multistage sampling. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the food security index, and logistic regression. Results showed that 62 percent of sampled households were food-insecure, with the majority classified as moderately or severely food-insecure during the lean agricultural season. Common coping strategies included reducing meal frequency, consuming less preferred foods, relying on social support networks, and engaging in off-farm labour activities. Household farm size, access to extension services, and household head education were significant predictors of food security status. The study recommends targeted social protection interventions, expanded agricultural extension coverage, and investment in rural infrastructure to enhance food security among farming households in Taraba State. Keywords: food security, farming households, coping strategies, Taraba State, food insecurity