Imperatives of Youth engagement in Agriculture and Implications for deviance in Enugu State, Nigeria

Context/background:

 In Nigeria, over 70% of the population engage in agriculture which implies that most of the Nigeria population rely on agriculture for sustenance. The youth category is a core segment of the population whose engagement in agriculture needs to be examined for future sustainability. This paper therefore examines the imperatives of youth engagement in agriculture and implications for deviance within the study area.  

Methodology

The study was conducted in Nsukka agricultural zone, Enugu state and adopted a cross-sectional survey design. A sample of 620 youth aged 18-35 years was systematically selected. Data was collected through the questionnaire instrument and was analysed using relevant frequency tables and regression analysis.

Findings:

The study confirmed low youth engagement in agriculture. Factors responsible are lack of finance, predominant use of crude implements and lack of government support. Apathy to agriculture in the face of massive unemployment could lead to deviance activities like drug addiction, alcoholism and cultism.  

Conclusion

The study concludes that agriculture should be made attractive to the youth by introducing modern techniques and equipment. Also modern crop varieties and soft loans should be provided to the youth.