Impact Of Agricultural Mechanization Policy On Living Standard Of Smallholder Rice Farmers In North East Nigeria

Abstract

Agricultural mechanization has re-emerged as a critical development strategy for improving rural welfare in sub-Saharan Africa. In North-East Nigeria an area affected by prolonged conflict and structural underdevelopment, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) introduced a mechanization support programme aimed at enhancing rice production and improving farmers’ living standards. This study assesses the impact of this mechanization policy on the welfare of smallholder rice farmers across Adamawa, Borno, and Gombe States. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 396 beneficiaries selected through a multistage cluster sampling technique. Descriptive statistics and simple linear regression were employed to determine the relationship between access to mechanization inputs (tractors, improved seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides) and farmers’ living standards. The findings reveal a statistically significant positive effect of mechanization support on income levels, food security, household assets, and general welfare of rice farmers. This study provides empirical evidence that region-specific mechanization interventions implemented by the NEDC contribute meaningfully to livelihood improvement in post-conflict communities. The study recommends scaling-up mechanization access, strengthening extension support, and mainstreaming mechanization into long-term agricultural recovery strategies for the North-East.