THE ROLES OF AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVES IN AGRICULTURAL MECHANIZATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The roles of agricultural cooperative in agricultural mechanization and its inadequate contributed to the low level of agricultural production in Nigeria compare with the population of the country. This paper critically examined the relevance and contribution of agricultural mechanization to the development of the agricultural sector of the economy. The study also discussed the benefits of credit for agricultural mechanization, the roles of cooperatives in agricultural mechanization were discussed, and some recommendations were suggested. In conclusion, in the context of trade liberalization and globalization, the cooperative approach is one of the best means of self-protection for small farmers mainly due to its self-help concept and member's participation. It is therefore vital for government to strengthen cooperative credit and improves the efficiency of agricultural credit supply.