Effect of vegetable farming on poverty status and livelihood of farming households in Bosso and Chanchaga local government areas, Niger state, Nigeria

This study examines the effect of vegetable farming on the poverty status and livelihood of farmers in Bosso and Chanchaga Local Government Areas of Niger State, Nigeria. The study describes the socio-economic characteristics of vegetable farmers, determines their poverty and livelihood status, and evaluates the profitability of vegetable farming. A sample size of 152 farmers was randomly selected, and data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered via the Kobo Toolbox. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) poverty index, the livelihood index, logit regression, and multiple regression models. The results show that 48.7% of respondents were between 41-50 years, while 28.9% were below 31 years. Additionally, 53.3% of the farmers were classified as poor, while 46.7% were non-poor. In terms of livelihood, 44.7% of respondents had a moderate livelihood, while 30.9% had a high livelihood status. Cost and return analysis indicated that vegetable farming is profitable, with an estimated total cost of ₦66,170.50, an average net income of ₦32,567.50, and a gross margin of ₦39,097.00 per production cycle. The major constraints faced by vegetable farmers included high input costs (51.9%), limited farmland (47.4%), and poor road networks (42.8%). The study concludes that vegetable farming has the potential to alleviate poverty and improve livelihoods. It recommends the provision of subsidized farm inputs, improved rural infrastructure, and enhanced extension services to boost vegetable farming and improve farmers’ economic well-being.