Ibadan Journal of the Social Sciences
Volume 14, No. 1, 2016
DOI: 10.36108/ijss/6102.41.0180
Out-migration prospects, Changing Values and Young People’s Increasing Disinterestedness in Cocoa Farming in Southwest Nigeria
Ezebunwa E. Nwokocha
Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
Abstract
The paper engages the contradiction wherein in the face of unemployment in its several strands young people in cocoa farming communities of Southwest Nigeria exhibit strong aversion for involvement in farming activities. Anchored on rational choice theory and ethno-methodology, the study adopted the qualitative data collection techniques including In-depth Interviews, Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Findings show that prospects for out-migration to urban centres to undertake other livelihood activities, perceived capital and labour intensity, low prestige and derogation ascribed to cocoa farming were identified as major reasons for dwindling interest of young people in cocoa farming. It is strongly recommended that government should reposition agriculture generally and cocoa farming in particular by creating a genuine enabling environment to reawaken the interest of young people in cocoa business.
Keywords: Livelihood activities, aversion for cocoa farming, and repositioned agriculture