Nemis Journal of Agricultural Science
Vol. 1(2), pp. 018-029
Full Length Research Article | Accepted Date: 26 MARCH, 2015.

AGRICULTURE AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN NIGERIA: LESSONS AND INSIGHT FROM AKWA-IBOM STATE INTEGRATED FARMERS' SCHEME EXPERIENCE.

AUTHOR: EMEKA NZEH AND BASSEY, JOSEPH EFIOK

Abstract

The Available evidence suggests an ageing farming population in Nigeria, with an average age of 47 years. In 2009, the national unemployment rate was 19.7%. Increased involvement of youth in agricultural activities in recent time will help reduce the problems of the ageing farm population. This study explores issues related to youth involvement in agriculture as the best that help them in life. Also the study specially looked at the model of youth employment using Akwa-Ibom State integrated farmers' scheme experience approach. Based on the findings from this study, it was recommended among others that government at federal, states and local levels should initiate a buy-back policy to encourage more youths to accept agriculture as business. This is because agriculture is the most important activity of the Nigerian economy and one of the sectors that promote employment especially for the youth.

Keywords

Agriculture, youth employment, integrated farmers' scheme

Citation

EMEKA NZEH AND BASSEY, JOSEPH EFIOK (2015).AGRICULTURE AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN NIGERIA: LESSONS AND INSIGHT FROM AKWA-IBOM STATE INTEGRATED FARMERS' SCHEME EXPERIENCE. Nemisjournal of Agricultural Science 1(2): 018-029.