The Impact of Lake Gerio Irrigation Scheme on the Farming Communities in Yola Metropolitan Area

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of the Gerio irrigation scheme on the registered farming communities of Yola metropolitan area. Data for the study was obtained through a questionnaire survey administered randomly to 183 out of the total of 610 farmers that operated under the scheme. Personal interviews were also conducted with the officials of the scheme and other relevant agricultural development authorities in the area. The results show that the Gerio scheme has improved the income of the farming families, which reflected in the quality of their living conditions. A number of the farmers have now owned personal houses, means of transport and other basic possessions. The results further revealed that the people are highly susceptible to adoption of modern farming techniques such as the use of high yield seeds, application of fertilizers and pesticides. Other findings revealed that the majority of the farmers are willing to partner with the governmental agencies in the management of the Gerio scheme.

Keywords: Gerio, Farmers, Irrigation, Scheme, Farm, Grain, Vegetable