Evaluation of Women’s Participation in National (Special) Programme for Food Security in Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the evaluation of women’s participation in National Special Programme for Food Security (NSPFS) in three project sites of Niger State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire accompanied by interview schedule was employed to obtain information from the respondents who were randomly selected from the 3 project sites of the NSPFS. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency distribution tables, percentages, three point Likert Scale, probit regression estimate and t-test. The result of the analyses shows that majority (71%) of the women participants were of middle age and still active in agricultural production. The mean age of the respondents was 37.4 years. Greater percentages (97.4%) of the women were married and participated more in crop production. In addition, there was a change in the literacy level of the respondents in the study area. The estimate of probit regression analysis shows that a significant relationship exists between respondents’ age (p<0.001), level of education (p<0.05) and household size (p<0.005). However, probit regression analysis showed that level of participation is being influenced by these factors. T-test result revealed significant increase in the farm size, output and income of the participants after the programme and were all significant at 1% level. Furthermore, the beneficiaries found to be were involved in the programme implementation. In conclusion, women participated immensely to NSPFS programme and contribute immensely to ensure food security in the country. The programme has given them more access to loans and other benefits. It was recommended that sufficient inputs at the right time be made available to them among others.