Analysis of Food Security Status Among Rural Households in Kogi State

This study analyses the food security status of rural households in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, examining the prevalence of food insecurity and its determinants. Food insecurity remains a critical development challenge in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where subsistence farming is the dominant livelihood strategy. Kogi State, despite its agricultural potential at the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers, reports persistently high food insecurity rates among rural communities. This study uses a cross-sectional survey design, collecting data from 240 rural households in Lokoja, Ijumu, and Ofu local government areas. Food security is assessed using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and dietary diversity scores. Logistic regression identifies determinants of household food insecurity. Findings reveal that approximately 62 percent of sampled households are food insecure, with the most severe food insecurity concentrated among female-headed households and households with more than six members. Farm income, household size, access to credit, and extension contact are significant determinants of food security status. Households with diversified income sources show significantly lower food insecurity prevalence. The study concludes that food insecurity in rural Kogi State is driven by a combination of low agricultural productivity, limited market access, and inadequate social protection. It recommends targeted social protection programmes, agricultural intensification support, and income diversification promotion as complementary strategies for improving rural food security in the state.

Keywords: food security, rural households, Kogi State, dietary diversity, household income.