The Impact of Ramp -2 on Farm Mobility and Productivity in Part of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in Nigeria’s economic structure, serving as a critical driver of food security, employment, and rural development. The study aimed at assessing the impact of RAMP -2 on farm mobility and productivity in part of Niger State, Nigeria. The study employs a mixed-methods research design, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to comprehensively assess the impact of the Second Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP-2) on rural infrastructure, market access, and agricultural productivity in Niger State.  The collected data were analyzed using regression analysis. The result indicates that RAMP-2 participation has a significant positive impact on farm yields (+318.2 kg/ha, p < 0.01). Market distance negatively affects productivity (i.e., farmers further from markets have lower yields). Higher transport costs reduce productivity, reinforcing the importance of affordable mobility. Further result shows that Farmers in RAMP-2 areas are 2.43 times more likely to participate in markets. Better road quality increases market participation by 87%. Farm yields have improved significantly following the road improvements, with the study showing a 25% increase in farm productivity. The study concludes that RAMP-2 in Niger State has had a significant positive impact on rural farmers, particularly in the areas of transportation, market participation, and agricultural productivity. Hence the study recommends improve market infrastructure to complement road networks.