An Empirical Examination of the Contributions of the Irrigation Schemes of the Cross River Basin Development Authority to Farmers’ Support and Food Security in Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

Water resource management remains central to agricultural productivity and food security, particularly in developing countries where smallholder farmers depend on seasonal rainfall. In Nigeria, River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) were established to promote irrigation, rural development, and agricultural sustainability. This study empirically examines the contributions of the Cross River Basin Development Authority (CRBDA) toward enhancing food security in Cross River State. Using survey data analyzed through descriptive statistics, percentages, and standard deviation, the research assessed farmers’ perceptions of CRBDA interventions in areas such as food supply, affordability, income generation, and environmental management. Findings reveal that while CRBDA has significantly improved food supply, challenges persist in affordability, farmer welfare, and environmental safeguards. A large proportion of respondents acknowledged improved availability of food but expressed dissatisfaction with affordability, farmers’ income, and consumable costs. Pollution control measures were also perceived as inadequate, raising concerns for long-term agricultural sustainability. The study concludes that CRBDA’s contributions, though relevant, remain constrained by institutional inefficiencies, weak maintenance culture, and limited funding. It recommends institutional reforms, enhanced funding, stronger farmer–market linkages, and integration of environmental safeguards to achieve sustainable food security in Cross River State.