Youths' migratory behavior on participation in agriculture - a case study of Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria

概要

[Objective]
The study investigated the factors responsible for the movement of rural dwelling youths and their non- participation in agriculture. Sequel to that, the examination of the socio-cultural characteristics limiting respondent’s participation in agriculture further indicated their perception towards agriculture with a key motive to ascertain their level of participation in agricultural production focusing on age, knowledge of agriculture and amount of credit facility. Factors motivating migration and the constraints limiting participation in agriculture with special interest on land use contributed to the major highlights of this research.

[Method]
This include primary data collected through structured survey using purposive sampling technique. Two hundred and forty (240) questionnaires out of the two hundred and sixty (260) questionnaires dispatched found their way into the analysis of research data. Data analysis was by descriptive statistical method and inferential statistical method for hypothesis confirmation.

[Results]
Findings showed that males migrate more than females. Movement was higher within the age range of 18-35 years (youths). Respondents with high school certificates outweigh those with university certificates. Participation in agriculture had no correlation with age. Further examination revealed that language plays a significant role on youths’ participation in agriculture. Access to credit facilities and knowledge of agriculture also had a great impact on the participation of youths in agriculture. Lack of good education and unemployment rate assumed the major reasons why people emigrate from the rural areas. Land ownership, fear of eviction and land disputes were among the factors contributing to the non-participation of youths in agriculture.

[Conclusion]
Age was insignificant which implies anyone with cheer interest in agriculture should be encouraged without considering the regular saying that farming is for the aged / old people. The unattractive perception of youths towards agriculture be put to check by upgrading the ways agriculture is practiced and education should be given utmost priority in order to obtain the required knowledge necessary for agriculture. With the right amount of knowledge and a level of expertise, unemployment rate tends to decline rapidly.