ABSTRACT

This study examines the historical trajectory of agricultural practices and food security in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon and Wamba LGAs, which constitute the Northern Nasarawa zone, from 1940 to 2020. It highlights how traditional systems of farming underwent some transformations under colonial administration. It also dealt with post-independence agricultural reforms, and interventions by successive governments, drivers of production and food security change. Thus, some post-independence policies like Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP)and its impact on agricultural production were highlighted with a view to evaluate the successes and failures of post-colonial reforms. The study further navigates the disruptions introduced by colonial policies like cash crop production, land tenure restructuring, payment of taxes, and forced free labour for colonial constructions. Methodologically, oral history, secondary and archival sources were used to highlight the resilience and adaptability of indigenous agricultural systems. Two interrelated theoretical frameworks were adopted for the study namely, political ecology and modernisation theory. In the end, the study found out among others that traditional policies and practices were largely based on subsistence farming that ensured food security in the area, prior to changes introduced in the colonial period. Again, the study opined that as the last tier of government nearest to rural farmers, the affected Local Government Councils can influence agricultural productivity through positive policies and initiatives that have direct bearing with survival and food sustainability in the zone.