EVALUATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND CLUSTER EXCELLENCE IN KWARA STATE: A QUALITATIVE APPROACH
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Date
2021
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National Open University of Nigeria Journal of Management and International Development
Abstract
Nigeria diversification of economy from crude petroleum dependency to other sectors of the
economy, particularly agriculture has led in improvement schemes such as agribusiness clusters.
Notwithstanding the frightening food security crisis with a growing population becoming
increasingly dependent on imported foods, the activities of Fulani cattle rearers, over politicization
of agricultural programmes, the dominant subsistence-oriented farm economy, insecurity, paucity of
funds and credit, labour scarcity despite overall high unemployment and stagnant technology which
had crippled the sector development. The study consequently evaluated the thematic link between
sustainable agriculture and cluster excellence in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study population
comprises of the twelve clusters who are beneficiaries of the Anchor borrowers Programme. A
qualitative approach using focus group discussion was adopted using three groups that were
purposively selected. The study found out that clustering businesses along value chain and
geographical clusters result in job creation, community development and income generation. The
study recommended that enabling environment should be created to enable the clusters perform
these fundamental roles. It is also recommended that concentration of businesses in the same
geographical location leads to economy of scale in production.
Description
The evolution of clusters as a recognized business model was formed because of the vital role they
play in fostering innovation, regional development and competitiveness. There are evidences stating
that in the presence of universities, research centres and supporting structures, geographical
concentration of companies has a good effect on the economic performance of persons living inside
the area.
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Citation
xix. Salau A. A & Okpara, K. K. (2021). Evaluating the relationship between sustainable agriculture and cluster excellence in Kwara State: A Qualitative Approach. NOUN Journal of Management and International Development. 6 (1), 331-342.