THE CROSS RIVER STATE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (CRADP) AND THE CHALLENGE OF SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN NIGERIA, 1987 - 2000

Abstract

The study examined, generally, the World Bank assisted Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) to underscore its strategic importance to the socio-economic development of Nigeria. ADP is the food production strategy of the Federal Government which created an environment for increase in food production and rural development. The ADP addressed a set of constraints which hitherto affected the performance of Nigerian rural farmer. Evidences show that the major challenge of the ADP is sustainability, particularly in Cross River State where funding has continued to dwindle following the expiration of the World Bank loan agreement. In spite of poor funding ADP structure and mandate of unified extension service remained the basis for the sustenance of the ADP system – collaborating with agricultural agencies of government and development partners - in Cross River State. Using historical and qualitative methods of data analysis and presentation, and relying on primary, secondary and internet sources for data, the study revealed that the ADP is the boldest step taken by the Federal Government of Nigeria towards developing agriculture and, invariably, a major response to the food and fiber shortages experienced in Nigeria especially after the civil war. The paper argues that with adequate funding, the impact of the ADPs in Nigeria could be greater. As such, the study suggested that the issue of funding of ADP should be pursued with sincere commitments by both the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria. The study concludes that a thoughtful and considerable attention be given to ADP to ameliorate its constraints as a firm measure to assure food security, rural development and wellbeing of Nigerians.