Effect of IFAD VCDP on welfare of smallholder farmers in Nigeria

Agriculture is both an economic actvitity and a source of livelihood of the rural sector in Nigeria. Apart from being the largest non-oil export earner, the largest employer of labour, and the key contributor to wealth creation, the agricultural sector is the base from which a large percentage of the population derives its income. Many households in Nigeria especially in rural areas, cannot afford to purchase necessary farm inputs or implement such as fertilizers, pesticides and improved seeds, which bring about increases in productivity and hence, increases households income and which will proactively affect the socio-economic wellbeing of household positively. This research presents analysis of effect of the IFAD Value Chain Development Programme(VCDP) on welfare on the general standards of living of smallholder farmers in Anambra State. Data on agricultural inputs and outputs, income, physical and financial assets, and access to market and social services were analysed. The results revealed that the VCDP had a major effect in improving productivity and welfare of farmers. This will also alleviate poverty and achieve the Nigerian government's vision for agricultural development.