National Policy on Environment and Community Participation in Agriculture and Food Production in Benue State

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between Nigeria's 2016 Revised 
National Policy on Environment and community participation in 
agriculture and food production, focusing on Benue State. Benue state plays a vital role in Nigeria's food security, yet it faces significant environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation, soil degradation, and water management issues. These environmental threats have adversely affected agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of rural communities. The objectives of the study include to examine the national policy on the environment in relation to agriculture, to assess the level of community participation in agriculture in Benue State. This study employs a qualitative research design with a case study approach, 
focusing on Vandeikya and Makurdi Local Government Areas (LGAs). 
Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 
stakeholders, focus group discussions (FGDs) with farmers, and 
cooperatives, and field observations. Secondary data sources included policy documents, academic literature, and reports from initiatives like the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project. Thematic analysis was applied to categorize findings and identify policy gaps in agricultural sustainability. The research highlights weak institutional coordination, inadequate funding, land tenure insecurity, and limited community engagement as major barriers to policy implementation. Sustainable Development Theory and Participatory Development Theory guide the study, emphasizing the importance of integrating local communities in decision-making processes for effective resource management. The key findings underscore the need for strengthening institutional frameworks, increasing funding for environmental programs, addressing land tenure issues, and developing robust monitoring systems. This study underscores the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure the successful implementation of the national policy on the environment, improve agricultural resilience, and secure food production for future 
generations.