ABSTRACT:

This study conducted a comparative analysis of the food security situation among cooperative and non-cooperative cassava farming households in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 360 respondents, and primary data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Food Security Index, the Foster Greer Thorbecke Model, Logit regression, and Z-tests. The findings indicate significant socio-economic disparities despite demographic similarities. Both groups were dominated by female farmers, with average ages around 45-46 years, predominantly married, with primary education, and household sizes of 4-8 persons. However, cooperative farmers demonstrated significantly higher average incomes (₦122,439.30) and larger farm sizes (2.3 hectares) compared to non-cooperators (₦116,526.00 and 1.7 hectares, respectively). Food security analysis revealed a substantial difference: 95.00% of cooperative households were food secure, contrasting sharply with 71.67% of non-cooperative households, a statistically significant disparity. Determinants of food security varied, with age, marital status, and farming experience being significant for cooperative members, while age, farm size, and farming experience influenced non-cooperators. The study concludes that cooperative membership significantly improves food security. It is recommended that both farmers and government institutions actively promote the formation and strengthening of such cooperatives, leveraging benefits like collective bargaining power, enhanced resource access, shared knowledge, and improved market linkages to foster sustainable rural development.