ANALYSIS OF YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IN OGBADIBO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE SATE, NIGERIA

This study examined youth participation in agricultural production in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The research employed a descriptive survey design with a sample size of 102 respondents selected through multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, and means. The findings revealed (38%) of the respondent fell within the age bracket of 31-35 years, with mean age of 33, males (53%) slightly outnumbering females (47%). The study found that 42% of the respondents were married, 35.3% had secondary education and crop farming (34.3%) was the dominant agricultural activity, with income generation (39.2%) being the primary motivation for youth participation. Access to land (45.1%) emerged as the most challenge faced by youth in agricultural production. The study revealed that 52% of respondents had not attended agricultural training programs, while 49% received subsidized inputs as the main form of government support. More than half (58.8%) strongly agreed that agriculture reduces unemployment in the study area. The study concluded that crop farming is mostly participated by youth in Ogbadibo Local Government Area. While access to land is the major constraint faced. It is therefore recommended that improved access to agricultural land, enhanced training programs, provision of modern farming equipment, and strengthened extension services to boost youth participation in agriculture. The findings suggest that with appropriate support and enabling environment, agriculture can serve as a viable pathway for youth employment and economic empowerment in the study area.