Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between sustainable agriculture and food security in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. The motivation for the study arose from persistent challenges of food shortages, fluctuating food prices, and household vulnerability, despite the area's agricultural potential. The specific objectives were to: Examine the relationship between environmental stewardship and food availability; Assess the relationship between transportation infrastructure and food accessibility; Investigate the relationship between economic viability and food utilization; and Determine the relationship between resource efficiency and food stability in Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. Four research questions and corresponding null hypotheses guided the study. The study was anchored on the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) and the Malthusian Population Theory. A survey research design was adopted, targeting farming households and food-related stakeholders, with 250 respondents selected using appropriate sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with Pearson Product Moment Correlation at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a strong positive and significant relationship between environmental stewardship and food availability exist; there is a moderate positive and significant relationship between transportation infrastructure and food accessibility; a strong positive and significant relationship between economic viability and food utilization exist; and a strong positive and significant relationship between resource efficiency and food stability. The study concluded that food security in Oshimili North is significantly influenced by sustainable farming practices, efficient transportation systems, stable livelihoods, and effective resource management. It recommended policies promoting environmental stewardship, improved rural infrastructure, livelihood support, and efficient farming practices to enhance sustainable food security.