Agricultural Policy and Food Security in Akwa Ibom State: A Study of Fadama Programme in Southern Senatorial District, 2014 – 2024
This study investigated the influence of the FADAMA III programme on agricultural productivity in the Southern Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Using Structural-Functional Theory, the research assessed how the programme functions within the agricultural system to enhance food production and rural development. A descriptive and survey research design was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires administered to 384 respondents across Eket, Ikot Abasi and Mbo Local Government Areas. Two hypotheses guided the study, focusing on the programme’s effectiveness and farmers’ access to improved farming practices. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, one-sample t-tests and Spearman’s Rho correlation. Findings showed that inadequate access to modern farming techniques posed a major constraint on productivity, while the FADAMA III programme did not significantly improve food output in the area. The study recommends improved access to modern agricultural technologies and more effective implementation of rural development initiatives