Analysis of the Effects of Rural-Urban Migration on Agricultural Labour Supply in Osun State, South West Nigeria

Rural-urban migration has emerged as a transformative demographic force reshaping the agricultural labour landscape in many Nigerian states. In Osun State, the increasing movement of working-age rural youth to urban centres has created significant labour supply gaps in farming communities, with implications for crop production and food systems. This study analysed the effects of rural-urban migration on agricultural labour supply in Osun State. Primary data were collected from 105 farming households across four local government areas using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Data captured household migration histories, labour hiring patterns, farm operations, and production trends. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were applied. Results revealed that households with one or more working-age members in urban areas had 38 percent lower farm labour availability compared to non-migrant households, resulting in reduced cropped area and increased reliance on hired labour. Higher hired labour costs were recorded during peak planting and harvesting periods, compressing farm margins. Female farmers were disproportionately burdened by additional farm responsibilities. The study recommends promoting mechanisation services at the community level and strengthening rural non-farm employment opportunities to slow migration pressure. Youth re-engagement in agriculture through attractive enterprise models and digital agri-business platforms is also advocated. Keywords: rural-urban migration, agricultural labour, Osun State, farm households, youth in agriculture.