CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Nigeria, a country with a predominantly agrarian economy, has faced a growing challenge in recent years with the increase in bandit activities, particularly in the northern regions. This surge in banditry has not only posed severe security threats but has also had far-reaching economic repercussions, prominently manifested in the escalating prices of agricultural produce. The intricate interplay between insecurity and the agricultural sector has become a critical concern, impacting the livelihoods of farmers, food security, and the overall economic stability of the nation. This introduction seeks to shed light on the nexus between bandit activities and the surge in prices of agricultural produce in Nigeria.
The escalation of bandit activities in Nigeria, particularly in the northern states, has emerged as a multifaceted challenge with profound socio-economic implications. Bandits, often engaging in acts of violence, kidnapping, and extortion, target rural communities where agriculture is a primary economic activity. This not only disrupts the daily lives of the affected populations but also undermines the agricultural production that serves as the backbone of the nation's economy (Ike, 2020).
The surge in bandit activities has significantly affected the agricultural sector, leading to disruptions in the production and distribution of crops. Farmers, facing the constant threat of attacks and destruction of farmlands, have experienced reduced productivity. Additionally, the fear of insecurity has prompted many farmers to abandon their fields, leading to decreased yields. Consequently, the reduced supply of agricultural produce has triggered an increase in prices, exacerbating food inflation and affecting both urban and rural consumers (Alabi, 2021).
The intertwining of bandit activities and the rise in prices of agricultural produce has severe implications for food security in Nigeria. The disruption of farming activities and the displacement of farming communities contribute to a decline in domestic food production. As a consequence, the country becomes more reliant on food imports, further straining the economy. The intricate relationship between banditry and food security underscores the urgency of addressing security challenges to ensure a stable and affordable food supply for the nation (Akinlade, 2022). Top of Form
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
The escalation of bandit activities in Nigeria poses a significant challenge to the nation's agricultural sector, contributing to a surge in the prices of agricultural produce. The problem stems from the relentless attacks and criminal activities perpetrated by bandits, particularly in the northern regions, where agriculture is a primary economic activity. Farmers in these areas face a constant threat to their lives and property, leading to a disruption of farming activities and a decline in agricultural productivity. As a consequence, the reduced supply of essential crops, such as grains and livestock, has triggered a domino effect on food prices, exacerbating food inflation and posing a direct threat to the country's food security.
One key dimension of the problem lies in the direct impact of bandit activities on agricultural productivity. The insecurity prevalent in regions affected by banditry has forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands or limit their agricultural activities due to fear of attacks. This has resulted in decreased yields and disruptions in the cultivation cycle and soaring prices in agricultural produce. Additionally, the destruction of farmlands, theft of livestock, and the kidnapping of farmers not only undermine the livelihoods of those directly affected but also contribute to a broader reduction in agricultural output. The consequent scarcity of agricultural produce has a direct correlation with the rising prices of essential food items, affecting both rural and urban populations (Akinlade, 2022).
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1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine bandits’ activities and increase in prices of agricultural produce in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To Assess the Impact of Bandit Activities on Agricultural Productivity in Nigeria.
- 2. To Examine the Economic Consequences of Agricultural Disruptions Caused by Banditry.
- 3. To proffer solutions to curbing banditry activities in Nigeria.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- How do bandit activities in Nigeria, particularly in agricultural regions, directly influence the productivity and cultivation practices of local farmers?
- What are the economic repercussions of bandit activities on the prices of agricultural produce, considering factors such as decreased yields, loss of investments, and increased production costs?
- How can bandits’ activities be curbed in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between bandits’ activities and prices in agricultural produce in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the agricultural sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Ardo-Kola Local Government Area of Taraba State. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
REFERENCES
- Akinlade, O. O. (2022). The Dynamics of Herdsmen-Farmers Conflict and Its Implications for National Security in Nigeria. Journal of Agriculture and Crops, 8(1), 21-29.
- Alabi, A. A. (2021). Banditry and agricultural production in North-West Nigeria. Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences, 12(4), 103-112.
- Ike, U. C. (2020). Banditry in Nigeria: An Overview and Analysis. Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.ipcr.gov.ng/sites/default/files/banditry_in_nigeria_an_overview_and_analysis.pdf
