EFFECT OF PRODUCTIVITY ON POVERTY STATUS OF ARABLE CROP FARMERS IN ABIA STATE NIGERIA

Agriculture remains a major source of livelihood for rural households in Nigeria, particularly among arable crop farmers. Despite the sector's significant contribution to employment and food production, poverty remains prevalent among farming households. This study examined the effect of productivity on the poverty status of arable crop farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study assessed the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, measured their productivity levels, determined their poverty status, and analyzed the relationship between productivity and poverty. A multistage sampling technique was used to select arable crop farmers from selected local government areas in Abia State. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, poverty indices, and regression models. The findings revealed that higher agricultural productivity significantly reduced the likelihood of farmers falling below the poverty line. Factors such as farm size, access to credit, extension services, education, and improved farm inputs positively influenced productivity and household welfare. The study concludes that enhancing agricultural productivity can serve as an effective strategy for poverty reduction among arable crop farmers. It recommends increased access to agricultural inputs, credit facilities, extension services, and modern farming technologies.