Observations on the Spatial Patterns of Agricultural Production in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines Agricultural Production in Nigeria using the principles of location relation to market, the principle of comparative advantage and von Thune’s classical theory on land use. Using the above theoretical background, the paper revealed that agricultural production of cereals and pulses are determined by natural factors and nearness to market. The paper concludes that tree crops production are determined by natural factors, internal migrations, agricultural innovation diffusion and existence of marketing boards. Location of oil seeds production are determined and sustained by both natural factors and nearness to market. Livestock which is one of the agricultural products is said to be determined and sustained by existence of market and the vegetation in the North of the Country. Unlike the other agricultural products, industrial crops production tend to be foot-loose (i.e. not so much dependent on nearness to market) and only require a well defined wet and dry season to thrive.