Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) and Poverty Alleviation in South-East Nigeria: A Xeriscaping Approach to Enhancing Food Security and Self-Employment

This study examines the effect of the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) on poverty alleviation in South-East Nigeria, focusing on its contributions to food security and self-employment. CACS is a federal government initiative designed to accelerate the development of the agricultural sector thgh credit facilities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collected and analyzed both quantitative and qualitative data from CACS beneficiaries. Findings reveal that access to CACS significantly improved food security through increased agricultural output, diversification of food production, and the creation of income-generating opportunities. The scheme also contributed to self-employment, particularly among rural youth. The study further shows that the adoption of xeriscaping principles has enhanced farming efficiency in water-scarce areas, further strengthening food production systems. The study concludes that CACS has significantly contributed in reducing poverty in South-East Nigeria by supporting agricultural activities that boost food security and employment. It recommends expanding the scheme’s coverage and providing agro-based training, with increased awareness of xeriscaping techniques to maximize the impact of the programme across the region and Nigeria in general. Received: 27 July 2025 / Accepted: 7 September 2025 / Published: 04 October 2025