Effect of banditry on rice production in northern agricultural zone of Benue state, Nigeria

The study examined the effect of banditry on rice production in northern agricultural zone of Benue State, Nigeria. A sample of 156 rice farmers from 3 L.G.A (Buruku, Katsina-Ala, Gboko) were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, gross margin and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The results showed that majority (59.00) of the respondents were female, 35.3% had a family size of 6-10 persons. About 39% of the respondents had a formal education. About 38% also showed that the major occupation of rice farmers is farming. Half 50.0% of respondents were in the business of rice cultivation for 11 to 15year. The average variable cost incurred per hectare was N321,680 with the total revenue was N623,000.11, total fixed cost N 93,320.00 with a gross margin of N338,560.11. and net farm income of N245,240.00. The minimum net farm income was N169, 556.00 and the maximum was N274,394.00 which indicated that, some farmers with low net farm income were been affected by banditry activities. The return on each naira invested by the rice farmers was N0.50. The elasticity of production with respect to each of the corresponding variables: farm size, labour, fertilizer, seed and marital status, educational qualification, major occupation, farming experience and distance to farm. Thus, for farm size is 0.924. Banditry has a detrimental effect on numerous rice-growing enterprises and having a negative influence on food security, health, education, eating habits, and a host of other socioeconomic activities in the study region. The study recommended that government should promote community-based organizations that can collaborate with authorities to facilitate early warning system, share information on banditry incidents, and promote measures to protect farmlands and livelihoods. Also, Non-governmental Organization should provide financial support i.e implement programs that offer financial assistance, such as loan and grant to farmers affected by banditry.