Policy and planning in urban and peri-urban agriculture: The cases of Uyo and Benin City, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

In Africa, the practice of urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) can be traced back to ancient civilizations. However, in recent times, farming in the developing world more broadly, is promoted for its contribution to household food security and poverty alleviation. Much research effort has thus been geared toward establishing these benefits, especially as urban poverty and unemployment continue to rise. Despite these benefits, UPA is still often considered illegal in many countries, with little official recognition and support from urban authorities. This attitude on the part of officials is said to stem from the restrictions on urban farming during the colonial era through planning policies. The inclusion of UPA in urban plans and the formulation of supporting policies are proposed as a way to ensure its future sustainability and enhance its potential benefits.

The most populous country in Africa, Nigeria, provides important case study cities for several reasons. First, the legal and planning context of UPA has not previously been studied in depth. Secondly, it allows for the comparison of the historical significance of UPA between a precolonial metropolis, Benin City, and the city of Uyo, which developed in the context of colonial planning regulations. Thirdly, there are gaps in our understanding of UPA in Nigeria, especially in relation to class and power. Using key informant interviews, questionnaire surveys and observation, this study has investigated the nature, significance, planning and policy implications of UPA in the two cities.

This thesis explores the significance and planning context of UPA in Nigeria through a historical lens. It examines the policy implications of these findings, as well as the potential opportunities and limitations for the support of farming and its inclusion in urban plans. It argues that UPA is not simply a technical fix to the existing system, but a potential driver for positive political, environmental, social, and economic transformation and, given its significance, there is a need for alternative conceptual framings of the practice in Africa beyond survival and poverty alleviation. It is cautioned that UPA is not in itself a way out of poverty, but an important component of robust food security and poverty alleviation strategies, therefore, necessitating its inclusion in urban food policies and development strategies. While this study problematizes support and policy in the context of rapid urbanisation and the resulting pressure on land, support and policy are, nonetheless necessary. However, such policy must be sensitive to participating households on the margin and any support must be aware of the political outcomes, whether intentional or not.