Contract Farming Arrangements and Smallholder Farmer Supply Chain Integration in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

This study investigates contract farming arrangements and their role in integrating smallholder farmers into formal agricultural supply chains in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. Plateau State is a major producer of vegetables, fruits, and potatoes, and is increasingly targeted by agribusiness firms and export companies seeking structured sourcing arrangements. Contract farming, which involves pre-agreed production volumes, quality specifications, and price guarantees between buyers and farmers, is seen as a mechanism for improving smallholder market access and supply chain predictability. Using a descriptive survey design, structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were conducted with 140 smallholder farmers and 10 agribusiness procurement officers in Jos, Vom, and Shendam. The study examines the terms, benefits, and challenges of existing contract arrangements, including input provision, extension support, quality compliance requirements, and price renegotiation risks. Supply chain integration is measured through market access regularity, income stability, and participation in quality certification. Descriptive statistics and content analysis are applied. The study draws on recent contract farming and smallholder supply chain inclusion literature from sub-Saharan African agricultural economies. Findings are expected to highlight that while contract farming offers income predictability, smallholder bargaining power asymmetries and contract enforcement weaknesses undermine equitable participation. Recommendations are addressed to agribusiness firms, the Plateau State Ministry of Agriculture, and smallholder cooperative networks. Keywords: contract farming, smallholder farmers, supply chain integration, Plateau State, agribusiness.