Determinants of Rural-Urban Migration Among Agricultural Youth in Kwara State

This study examines the determinants of rural-urban migration among agricultural youth in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. The exodus of young people from rural farming communities to urban centres is a critical challenge for Nigerian agricultural sustainability, as the farming population ages and youth labour supply for agriculture declines. Kwara State, with its mixed farming communities and proximity to Abuja and Lagos, provides a relevant context for studying agricultural youth migration dynamics. This study uses a survey design, collecting data from 240 rural youth aged 18 to 35 in Moro, Ifelodun, and Edu local government areas, including both those who have migrated and returned and those who have remained in rural communities. Migration determinants assessed include agricultural income, land access, urban income expectations, peer influence, education level, and access to agricultural support services. Binary logistic regression is applied. Findings reveal that low and unpredictable agricultural income, perceived lack of social status in farming, and peer migration influence are the strongest predictors of migration intention. Youth with land access and extension contact show significantly lower migration intentions. The study concludes that agricultural income enhancement and social reframing of farming as a viable youth career are essential for retaining youth in agricultural communities. It recommends youth agricultural enterprise development programmes with financial support and peer mentorship components.

Keywords: rural-urban migration, agricultural youth, Kwara State, migration determinants, rural livelihoods.