Agriculture and Employment Generation in Benue State

Agriculture remains a fundamental sector in Nigeria’s economy, yet unemployment persists as a major socioeconomic challenge. Despite the vast arable land and agricultural potential of Benue State, youth unemployment and underemployment have continued to rise, necessitating an investigation into the role of agriculture in employment generation. This study examines the contributions of agriculture to job creation in Benue State from 2015 to 2023, focusing on major agricultural initiatives under the Samuel Ortom administration. The study employs a survey method utilizing questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The questionnaires were analyzed using simple percentage, while qualitative content analysis was applied to interview responses. Human capital theory underpins the study, emphasizing the significance of skills, training, and investment in agriculture as a driver of employment. Findings reveal that agriculture has significantly contributed to employment generation in Benue State through crop farming, livestock production, agro-processing, and value chain activities. The Ortom administration’s key agricultural initiatives, such as the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme, revival of extension services, distribution of improved seedlings, and the establishment of agro-processing zones, created direct and indirect employment opportunities. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, poor access to credit, and postharvest losses persist. To enhance agriculture’s role in employment generation, the study recommends strengthening agricultural financing mechanisms to improve farmers' access to capital and investing in rural infrastructure such as roads, storage facilities, and irrigation systems to boost productivity and market access. These interventions will further solidify agriculture’s role as a catalyst for economic growth and employment in Benue State.