EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL CO-OPERATIVE ON WELL BEING OF FARMERS IN LAPAI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

The study examined the effects of agricultural cooperative societies on the well-being of farmers in Lapai Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria. The objectives were to, assess the level satisfaction of farmers participating in agricultural cooperative activities, determine the well-being status of farmers, examine the effects of agricultural cooperatives on farmers' well-being,. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 farmers across the selected areas for the study. Questionnaire complemented with an interview schedule ws used to elicit primary information. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Probit regression analysis. The results of the analysis obtained showed that (81.7%) of farmers were satisfied with cooperative participation, with future income security (X̄=5.95) ranking highest among well-being indicators. Also, the Probit regression analysis revealed that improved income, improved livelihood, improved inputs/market access, education, and bargaining power positively influenced farmers' well-being at various probability levels. The model was statistically significant with Pseudo R2 of 0.4733. The study revealed that the most important constraints faced by farmers are corruption among officials (X̄=3.90), limited awareness (X̄=3.88), lack of trust among members (X̄=3.76), and lack of continuity/limited access to information (X̄=2.90), among others. The research conclude a positive impact of agricultural cooperative on farmers and recommended that government and financial institutions should provide low-interest loans and grants to cooperative members, while transparency in financial management and resource distribution should be enhanced to build trust among members and ensure sustainable cooperative participation.