Livelihood Diversification and Food Security among Crop Farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

To address prevalent poverty and food insecurity, farming households in Africa are increasingly embracing a variety of livelihood strategies. In this light, this study examines how livelihood diversification affects food security among arable crop farming households in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The objective is to determine how diversification affects food security among these households. A multi-stage sampling procedure selected 120 respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and personal interviews, then analysed with descriptive statistics, the food security index, Tobit regression, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation (PPMC). The average age of respondents was 56 years, with males dominating farming (92.5%). Most (83.3%) were educated, and 84.2% were married. All had secondary occupations, with 40% acquiring land by purchase. The average farm size was 0.45 hectares, and 56.7% farmed out of personal interest. About 82% benefited from credit facilities. Average monthly income was ₦145,458, with farm income at ₦106,833 and food expenditure at ₦26,870. ADP was the primary agricultural information source for 60% of the population. Food security was achieved by 82.5%. According to the Household Diversification Index, 48.3% had low diversification, 43.3% average, and 8.3% high. Significant livelihood diversification determinants included age (P=0.000), household size (P=0.031), and weekly food spending (P=0.017). Diversification was positively correlated with food security, indicating that as households diversify their income sources, their food security status improves. However, 40% cited lack of capital as the main challenge. Many respondents were food-secure, and livelihood diversification aimed to increase income. The study recommends that the government promote non-farm jobs and improve rural infrastructure to support diverse incomes for rural households.