Types, Features & Role of Agriculture in Economic Development | Economics for JAMB PDF Download

Introduction to Agriculture

• Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria's economy and plays a vital role in the nation's development.
• It involves the cultivation of crops, rearing of livestock, and the exploitation of natural resources for food, fiber, and other products.

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Types and Features of Agriculture

Subsistence Agriculture

• It involves small-scale farming primarily for self-consumption.
• Farmers use simple tools and traditional methods.
• Focuses on staple food production such as yam, cassava, millet, and maize.
• Commonly practiced in rural areas.
• Example: A farmer in a remote village growing maize for personal consumption.

Commercial Agriculture

• Large-scale production for the purpose of sale and profit.
• Involves mechanized farming techniques, modern equipment, and scientific methods.
• Emphasis on cash crops like cocoa, palm oil, rubber, and cotton.
• Concentrated in regions with favorable climatic and soil conditions.
• Example: A company cultivating acres of palm trees to produce palm oil for export.

Mixed Farming

• Combines crop cultivation and livestock rearing.
• Provides a diverse range of agricultural products.
• Synergistic relationship between crops and livestock for sustainability.
• Farmers can benefit from both crop sales and livestock products.
• Example: A farmer cultivating maize and rearing cattle on the same farm.

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Characteristics and Problems of Agriculture

Seasonal Production

• Agriculture in Nigeria is heavily influenced by the rainy and dry seasons.
• Farmers must plan their activities accordingly to maximize output.
• Seasonal variations can lead to fluctuations in prices and availability of agricultural products.

Low Productivity

• Outdated farming practices, limited access to modern technology, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to low productivity.
• Insufficient use of fertilizers, pesticides, and improved seeds.
• Lack of access to credit for farmers to invest in modern farming techniques.

Inadequate Storage and Processing Facilities

• Post-harvest losses occur due to inadequate storage and processing facilities.
• Lack of proper preservation methods reduces the quality and value of agricultural produce.
• Limited cold storage facilities for perishable products.

Inadequate Access to Markets

• Poor transportation infrastructure makes it difficult to transport agricultural produce to markets.
• Lack of organized marketing systems leads to exploitative middlemen.
• Farmers struggle to find buyers and get fair prices for their products.

Role of Agriculture in Economic Development

Employment Generation

• Agriculture is a significant source of employment, especially in rural areas.
• Provides income and livelihood opportunities for a large portion of the population.

Contribution to GDP

• Agriculture contributes to Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• Revenue from agricultural exports enhances foreign exchange earnings.

Food Security

• Agriculture ensures a stable and sufficient food supply for the nation.
• Reduces dependence on imports and mitigates the risk of food scarcity.

Industrialization

• Agriculture provides raw materials for agro-based industries.
• Encourages value addition and promotes economic diversification.

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Conclusion

Agriculture in Nigeria encompasses various types, each with distinct features and characteristics. Despite the challenges faced, agriculture plays a pivotal role in economic development, providing employment, contributing to GDP, ensuring food security, and promoting industrialization. Addressing the problems associated with agriculture is crucial to unleash its full potential and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria.