Utilisation of Fadama Land for Improved Rural Economy in Niger State

Abstract

This paper highlights the role of Fadama in enhancing the economy of the rural populace in Niger state. Fadama (wetland or floodplains) is seasonally flooded plain along major rivers and depression on the adjacent terraces. Its resources constitute an important agricultural ecology in the world and are major contributor of economic growth of the society. It is usually a site of busy agricultural activities (rainfed and irrigated agriculture) throughout the year owing to its characteristic residual and underground moisture retention within the root zone. Wetland soils have great potential for sustainable increase in food production. It hosts the production of arable and vegetable crops, fisheries and grazing land for livestock. The potential of Fadama is based on its ability to retain sufficient soil moisture that support cultivation of wide variety crops in two distinct seasons (wet and dry season). It also has soils that are generally more fertile than that of upland. However, some challenges that can hinder the attainment sustainable agricultural production in the Fadama include; difficulty in clearing natural vegetation, intensive weeds infestation, prevalence of pest and diseases, poor water control (flooding) and poor land use management. The study recommends supply of farm inputs and equipment to Fadama farmers at the right time, support farmers groups, and maintenance of rural roads and direct purchase of vegetables for school feeding programme to improve income of Fadama farmers.