THE CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF SMALL SCALE FAMERS IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined the challenges and prospects of small scale famers in Enugu state, Nigeria. The effects of these observed hindrances that limit the prospects of the farmers in the study area were thoroughly elucidated and options for improvements discussed. Some of the observed challenges include, poverty, unfavourable legislation, inadequate capital and limited access
credit facilities, land ownership system, poor yield and markets, the use of unmechanized farming, lack of basic social and infrastructural facilities and negligent of rural areas where majority of the small scale farmers lives amongst others. From the foregoing, the researchers conclude that government of every tier should as a matter of necessity embarks on policies which are conducive to sustain positive effects in small scale farmers. A continued process of infrastructural development and maintenance in the rural areas as well as positive specific reforms in agricultural system is thus necessary to realize the full potential of the rural sector to function as the engine of growth and the key ingredient for promoting rapid political, social and economic development of Nigeria.