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ABSTRACT
The study conducted the impact of crop diversification on the food security status of rural households in Ika North-East Local Government Area, Delta State. A multistage sampling procedure will be used in selecting the respondents. The data used for this study will be generated from one major source viz: primary source through questionnaire. Inferential and Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency and percentage were used for analyzing the data collected. The result shows that higher percentage of male farmers were involved in crop diversification and individuals aged between 35-54 years, those with higher education levels, and members of agricultural associations were more inclined to practice crop diversification. The Crop Diversification Index highlighted that 51.22% of diversifying farmers achieved high crop diversity and in terms of crop variety, diversifying farmers cultivated a diverse range of crops, including staples like cassava and yam, cash crops like plantains and oil palms, and vegetables, leading to a richer dietary diversity. This was mirrored in their food consumption patterns, with a wide range of food items regularly consumed, showing the positive impact of crop diversification on nutritional intake. The result showed that Food Security Index (FSI), diversifying farmers exhibited significantly better food security (M = 1.477) compared to non-diversifying farmers (M = 0.996). The statistical significance (p < 0.00001) indicated the critical role of crop diversification in ensuring consistent access to an adequate and diverse food supply, thereby reducing the risk of hunger x and malnutrition. It is therefore recommended that government and other stakeholder should implement programs to enhance agricultural education and awareness among farmers, emphasizing the benefits of crop diversification. Workshops, training sessions, and extension services can provide valuable knowledge on diverse crops and their cultivation techniques.
