Analysis of Agricultural Productivity and Rural Income in Plateau State

Agricultural productivity is the primary determinant of rural household incomes in Plateau State, and analysing its level, distribution, and determinants provides evidence for improving rural livelihoods in North Central Nigeria. This study analysed agricultural productivity and its relationship to rural income among farming households in Jos South, Mangu, and Riyom Local Government Areas, Plateau State. A cross-sectional survey of 250 rural farming households was conducted. Data covered land area cultivated, output quantity, input use, access to extension services, and annual farm income. Total Factor Productivity was estimated using Data Envelopment Analysis, and OLS regression identified income determinants. Results showed that average crop output per hectare was N94,000 annually, below the national agricultural sector benchmark for mixed farming systems. Technical efficiency averaged 0.62, indicating significant inefficiency. Extension service access was received by only 27 percent of sampled farmers. Improved seed use was 34 percent and fertiliser use 41 percent, well below optimal input rates. Farm income constituted 73 percent of total household income for sampled households. Education of the household head and cooperative membership were the strongest positive income predictors. The study concludes that agricultural productivity in Plateau State is significantly below potential. Recommendations include expanding agricultural extension services, fertiliser subsidy programmes, improved seed distribution through cooperatives, and rural financial services expansion to facilitate input financing.

Keywords: agricultural productivity, rural income, Plateau State, technical efficiency, extension services