Paper short abstract:

1978 Nigeria Land Use Act vested land authority in State governors, but after 43 years, objectives are unmet. In Southwest Nigeria, rural farming households face forceful dispossession, causing conflicts. Study recommends aligning with CFS-RAI guidelines and fair compensation for affected families.

Paper long abstract:

The 1978 Nigeria Land Use Act vested land ownership authority in the hands of State governors for the public interest. Despite 43 years since its enactment, the act's objectives remain unfulfilled. In Southwest Nigeria, rural farming households have faced forceful dispossession of their lands by the State government, leading to unresolved conflicts through both legal and peaceful channels. This study delves into the guiding principles of government land acquisition for agriculture and its impact on the livelihoods of rural farming households in Southwest Nigeria.

Primary data from 480 displaced rural farming households, whose lands were acquired by the government, were analysed. Respondents were chosen through a two-stage sampling process. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis. The findings indicated that the displacement prompted many farmers to seek alternative employment, moving away from relying solely on farming. Moreover, a significant disparity in income before and after forceful dispossession was observed.

The Likert five-point scale highlighted that the comprehensive approach to land acquisition and allocation, coupled with an inclusive engagement strategy involving all stakeholders, including affected communities and vulnerable groups, proved ineffective in Southwest Nigeria. Notably, 75% of respondents reported a substantial knowledge gap and lack of awareness regarding policy frameworks and procedures related to government agricultural land acquisition.

The study recommends that State governments adopt a comprehensive approach to land acquisition and allocation, aligning with the Committee on World Food Security-Responsible Agricultural Investment (CFS-RAI) guidelines. Additionally, fair compensation should be provided to families affected by government land acquisition.