EFFECT OF RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION ON YAM PRODUCTION IN UKUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study determined the effect of rural-urban migration on yam production in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of yam producers; determined the rate of rural-urban migration, identified the factors affecting rural-urban migration; determined the effects of rural-urban migration on productivity; determined the effect of rural-urban migration on land use system; determined the effect of rural-urban migration on technology adoption; and determined the effect of rural-urban migration on labour use. The study adopted a survey design, by using structured questionnaire. A sample size of 90 households was selected using multi-stage random sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics (frequencies percentage and mean) and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The results showed a predominantly male (71.3%) yam farming population with an average age of 32.38 years, while 87% were married, 76.3% had at least primary education, and had an average of 14.06 years of farming experience. Most farmers (60%) reported high yam quality and an average annual income of ₦683,333. Key drivers of migration included limited job opportunities (90%), poor infrastructure (97.78%), inadequate education facilities (97.78%), improved urban health services (91.72%), and a better urban standard of living (100%). Migration was found to reduce labor availability (94.44%), quality (96.67%), and productivity (86.67%), while increasing production costs (93.34%). Migration affected land use, with 84.44% reporting abandoned lands, a shift in land use (97.78%), and expanded yam farms (85.55%). While migration’s effect on technology adoption was mixed, 62.22% disagreed that it reduced new farming technique adoption, and 57.78% reported stable access to training and modern practices. On labor, migration significantly reduced labor availability (97.78%) and quality (90%), increased hired labor reliance (89.99%), and highlighted a need for mechanization (90%). The study concluded that migration significantly impacts yam production by reducing labor availability and quality of yam production in Ukum Local Government Area. The study recommended amongst others that local governments and stakeholders should invest in job creation initiatives in rural areas to provide viable employment opportunities by developing agro-based industries and enhancing market access for yam producers.