Agricultural Production and Economic Growth in Nigeria: Implication for Rural Poverty Alleviation

Abstract

This research was carried out to provide empirical information on the relationship between agricultural production and the growth of Nigerian economy with focus on poverty reduction. Time series data were employed in this research and the analyses of the data were done using unit root tests and the bounds (ARDL) testing approach to cointegration. The result of the data analysis indicated that agricultural production was significant in influencing the favourable trend of economic growth in Nigeria. Despite the growth of the Nigerian economy, poverty is still on the increase and this calls for a shift from monolithic oil-based economy to a more plural one with agriculture being the lead sector. It was recommended that pro poor policies should be designed for alleviating rural poverty through increased investments in agricultural development by the public and private sector.