ENHANCING AGRICULTURAL ENTREPRENEUR AMONG YOUTHS IN OVIA NORTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

The study examined the effect of enhancing agricultural entrepreneur among youths in Ovia North East local government area of Edo State. Agriculture plays a vital role in the development of economy. It is the backbone of Nigeria economy. Enhancing agricultural entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths can transform the agricultural sector, leading to increased productivity and economic growth. By engaging youths in agriculture, it fosters innovation and the adoption of modern farming techniques. This initiative can reduce youth unemployment and rural-urban migration, contributing to sustainable rural development. Empowered with entrepreneurial skills, young farmers can access better markets and financial services, enhancing their income and livelihoods. Moreover, it promotes food security and self-sufficiency, reducing dependency on food imports. Overall, fostering agricultural entrepreneurship in Nigerian youths is crucial for economic diversification and creating a resilient agricultural economy. To navigate this study, the objectives of the study is to examine the examine the dynamic importance of agriculture entrepreneurship among youths in Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State, to examine the effect of enhancing agricultural entrepreneurship among youths in Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State and lastly, to identify the challenges in enhancing agricultural entrepreneurship among youths in Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State. Research questions and hypothesis were raised to guide the study. The study adopted survey research design. The population of this research study is 155,344 with a sample size of three hundred and ninety nine (399) using the Taro Yamane’s formula. The simple random sampling technique was utilized in the administration of the questionnaires for the study. The study found that agriculture entrepreneurship among youths is crucial as it will ensure food security for Nigeria's growing population. The study recommends that government at all levels should endeavor to motivate the youths through the establishment and effective implementation of agro-entrepreneur skills and infrastructure to boost food efficiency.