The Impact of River Basin Development Authorities on Nigerian Agriculture: A Case Study of Niger River Basin Development Authority

Authors

E. D. Balogun, Central Bank of Nigeria
E. U. Ukeje, Central Bank of Nigeria

Publisher

Central Bank of Nigeria

Keywords

River Basin Development, Agriculture, Nigeria, Niger River Basin Development Authority

Abstract

The paper traced the history of water resource development in Nigeria, and assessed the impact of the Niger River Basin Development Authority (NRBDA) on crop production in the region. The analysis of available data showed that although the NRBDA's activities resulted in improvements in crop yields, and farm incomes of beneficiaries, the impact on regional output and area cultivated was marginal since it accrued to only very few farmers. Moreover, the cost of generating such increments was outrageously high when compared to the incremental costs incurred by alternative development institutions in respect of similar activities. The NRBDA was not without its problems, among which were the adoption of inappropriate technologies which resulted in under utilisation of installed capacity and generated enormous negative externalties, financial constraints, poor management practices and marketing arrangements. The concluding remark stressed the need to re-examine the current River Basin Development approach to water resource development for agricultural purposes in Nigeria.

Author Bio

The authors are Senior Economist and Economist, respectively in Agricultural Studies Office, Research Department, Central Bank of Nigeria

Publication Title

CBN Economic and Financial Review

Issue

2

Volume

24

Recommended Citation

Balogun, E. D. and Ukeje, E. U. (1986). The Impact of River Basin Development Authorities on Nigerian Agriculture: A Case Study of Niger River Basin Development Authority. CBN Economic and Financial Review. 24(2), 64-76.