Urbanization and Food Production in Owerri North Local Government Area, Nigeria

Abstract

Aim of the Study: Urbanization as a social change brings with it, numerous opportunities. It however, may constitute a threat to food production thereby leading to food insecurity in Owerri North LGA. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of urbanization on food production so as to make recommendations that will foster food production in the face of urbanization. The study answered three research questions and adopted the population theory of Thomas Malthus because; it explains the ills of urbanization.

Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive research design because the study relied on the behaviour and opinion of people. Using Taro Yamane, a sample population of 399 was derived. Nevertheless, a sample size of (N=382) was arrived at from the number of questionnaire returned from the field. The researchers purposively selected Orji, Emekuku and Naze to represent the entire Owerri North LGA because these communities in the local government are similar in everything including the trend of Urbanization. Respondents were randomly sampled so as to give each respondent equal chances of representation. The study solely relied on the secondary sources of data collection technique and the use of questionnaires to gather data for this study. Data were presented in tables and analysed using the simple percentage statistical tool.

Findings: Findings revealed that, lands are mostly used for non-agricultural purposes and that; the price of land in the LGA has increased greatly. It was also revealed that most youths who should drive agriculture tend to engage in non-agricultural economic ventures.

Conclusion & Recommendations: Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that government and NGOs encourage plantation farming and animal husbandry. It was recommended that government and NGOs must provide agricultural lands, fertilizer, seedlings and interest free loans for farmers and investors who seek to engage in farming.