Analysis of Influence of Livelihood on Food Security among Rural Farming Households in Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the influence of livelihood activities on food security among rural farming households in Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 279 farming households selected from 12 communities using a structured electronic questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and binary logit regression were used for data analysis. Food security was assessed using the Food Consumption Score, Household Dietary Diversity Score, Reduced Coping Strategy Index and Household Hunger Scale. The results showed that food-crop production was the dominant livelihood activity (98.60%), while 72.80% of households engaged in trading of non-agricultural produce. Overall, 81.00% of households were food insecure. Non-farm activities, combined livelihood activities, education, farm size and access to extension services significantly influenced household food security. High cost of agricultural inputs, adverse climatic conditions and poor infrastructure were the major livelihood constraints. The study recommends livelihood diversification, improved extension services and interventions to reduce the cost of agricultural inputs and strengthen rural livelihoods.