Prospects and Constraints of Indigenous Agricultural Practices among Rural Farmers in Itu L.G.A. Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

摘要

The study analysed the prospects and hindrances to the application of local knowledge in the development of rural agriculture in Itu local government area of Akwa Ibom state using descriptive statistics and coding methods. The results indicated provision of food (30%), income generation (24%), employment opportunities (20%) and provision of raw materials (15%) as some of the benefits of indigenous agricultural practices in the area. Lack of credit facilities, poor tools and storage facilities, absence of viable market, continuous land tenure system and old age/sickness were the major constraints of the rural farmers. The study identified some livelihood activities common in the area. Government is, therefore, advised to put in place, a sustainable programme that would improve traditional agriculture in Nigeria.