Assessment of Agro-Tourism Potential in Benue State, North Central Nigeria

This study assesses the agro-tourism potential of Benue State, North Central Nigeria, widely known as Nigeria's Food Basket. Agro-tourism, which integrates agricultural experiences with tourism activities, offers promising opportunities for rural economic diversification and sustainable agricultural promotion. The study adopts a descriptive survey design with questionnaires administered to 160 farmers, agricultural extension officers, domestic tourists, and state ministry officials. Variables assessed include existing agricultural attractions, tourist interest in farm visit experiences, infrastructure readiness for agro-tourism, and relevant regulatory frameworks. Findings reveal significant untapped potential, particularly in yam, sorghum, and fish farming enterprises, which represent visually and culturally compelling visitor experiences. Seventy-three percent of domestic tourists surveyed express interest in organised farm tour experiences if properly packaged and marketed. However, inadequate road access to rural farm sites, absence of visitor facilities on farms, and lack of awareness among farmers of tourism-related income opportunities are identified as major constraints. The study recommends that the Benue State Ministries of Agriculture and Tourism jointly develop an agro-tourism framework, pilot a farm tourism certification scheme for interested farmers, and partner with travel agencies to market Benue agro-tourism packages to school groups and urban food enthusiasts. Microfinance support for farm infrastructure upgrades is also proposed. Keywords: agro-tourism, rural tourism, Benue State, agricultural heritage, sustainable tourism