EMBAR

Author:
Agada S.G., Ashaolu O.F , Iheanaco A.C
Department of Agribusiness, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria.

DOI: doi.org/10.58924/rjhss.v5.iss4.p3

Published Date: 12-Sep, 2026

Keywords: Farm Size Distribution; Rice-farming Households; Northwest Nigeria

Abstract:
This study examined the determinants of farm size distribution among rice-farming households in Northwest Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was employed to select 387 rice-farming households, with the first stage involving purposive selection of Kano, Kebbi, and Jigawa States, while the last stage involved cluster sampling of rice-farming households. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the Gini Coefficient, and Ordered Logit regression. Results showed that farm size distribution was dominated by small-scale holdings, with 69.0% of households operating small farms of 0.1-1.99 ha, 23.0% operating medium farms of 2.00-4.99 ha, and 8.0% operating large farms of 5.00 ha and above. The mean farm size was 1.45 ha, while the Gini coefficient of 0.24 indicated relatively low inequality in farm-size distribution. The Ordered Logit model revealed that sex (β = 1.05; p<0.01), household size (β = 0.29; p<0.05), and land tenure security (β = 0.65; p<0.01) significantly and positively influenced the likelihood of belonging to higher farm-size categories. The study concluded that farm size distribution among rice-farming households in Northwest Nigeria is significantly influenced by household characteristics and land tenure security. The study recommended strengthening land tenure security, improving farmers’ access to productive resources, and promoting policies that support efficient land utilisation and sustainable expansion of farm holdings among rice-farming households in Northwest Nigeria.

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