ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION AND AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMMES IN KEBBI STATE

Abstract

The paper investigates the role of local government and economic diversification on agricultural development. The data collection instrument used was a questionnaire which was administered  to a total sample of 398 local settlement authorities of three Local Government Areas (Birnin  Kebbi, Gwandu, and Jega) in Kebbi State of Nigeria. Sample selection was based on the purposive sampling technique. The demographic data was analyzed using mean, and standard deviation. The analysis involved statistical methods such as regression test between independent and dependent variables. The research findings supported the hypotheses that local government driving forces significantly impact on economic diversification. The study recommends that Local government administrators should adopt agricultural practices that will enhance transitioning away from dependence on one or a few commodities such as crude oil and mineral.