The Anchor Borrowers' Programme and Its Influence on Rice Farming Dynamics in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the improvement of rice production in Nigeria through the government’s policy of the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP). Rationalized by the production theory, the study utilizes quantitative methods such as surveys. The study investigates the influence of ABP on rice production, with particular emphasis on the experiences of smallholder rice farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional survey research approach, and the target population comprised smallholder rice farmers in the state who have benefitted from ABP. The study obtained a representative sample of 400 respondents through stratified random sampling. The study adopts the administration of a structured questionnaire with rice farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, as the primary data collection method. Regression was used to test the hypotheses in SPSS version 23. From the findings, the study reveals the need for the ABP, banks and other lending agencies/programmes to train farmers. It shows that modern farming contributes to rice production in Ebonyi State.