Agricultural Insurance Schemes and Crop Loss Mitigation Among Groundnut Farmers in Zamfara State

This research examines the effectiveness of agricultural insurance schemes in mitigating crop loss among groundnut farmers in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria. Groundnut cultivation represents a major source of income for rural households in Zamfara State, yet farmers are exposed to significant production risks from drought, pest infestations, and insecurity-related disruptions. The Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) and the Agricultural Insurance Corporation of Nigeria (ANIC) have established crop insurance products targeting smallholders, but their reach and impact in Zamfara State require empirical evaluation. This study adopts a descriptive survey design involving 280 registered groundnut farmers drawn from four agricultural zones in the state. Structured questionnaires measure insurance enrollment rates, understanding of coverage terms, experience with claims settlement, and perceived adequacy of indemnities received following crop losses. The study also assesses the role of extension service agents in communicating insurance benefits to farming communities. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis are applied to assess relationships between enrollment and loss mitigation outcomes. Preliminary analysis suggests that insurance enrollment rates are low and that many farmers have limited awareness of ANIC-administered products. The study recommends strengthening agricultural extension systems and embedding insurance education in farmer cooperative programs. Keywords: Agricultural Insurance, Crop Loss, Groundnut Farmers, Zamfara State, NIRSAL.