The Green Revolution Programme in Nigeria Some Observations

Abstract

The Green Revolution Programme of the Federal Government of Nigeria seeks to solve both the problems of the worsening food situation in the country and that of the ailing agricultural sector in general.

This paper draws attention to a few factors that might hinder the achievement of these goals. The factors include the overt commitment to large-scale mechanized farming, unequal benefit to be derived in society, absence of cost/benefit analysis of the programme, lack of clarity/probable mutual inconsistencies in the goals ought to be achieved, absence of local mass participation, the emphasis on state direction and proliferation of authority to execute the programme.

It is concluded that since over 70% of Nigerians belong to the rural sector, and since the rate of absorption of the labour force into industry is extremely low thereby agravating the problem of unemployment, it is imperative to generate more purchasing power the rural sector by concentrating development efforts on small holdings. A few suggestions to guide future policies are also given.