AGRICULTURAL MARKETING STRATEGY AND FOOD SECURITY IN AKWA IBOM STATE

Food insecurity remains a major policy issue in many countries around the world. In Nigeria, the situation is particularly severe, with over 70% of the population reported to be food insecure [Statista, 2024]. This high level of food insecurity is largely attributed to inefficient agricultural marketing systems, inadequate storage facilities, and poor transportation networks etc, which contribute to significant post-harvest losses, increased food prices and reduced access to food. This study examined the influence of the agricultural marketing strategy on food security in Akwa Ibom State. Specific focus is on vertical marketing systems, storage facilities, grading and assembling. A descriptive survey research was adopted for the study. The study population comprised all farmers in the study area, while a sample size of 385 respondents was determined from the study population using Cochran sample size formula. Data were collected using a structural questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive inferential statistics. The findings revealed that effective vertical marketing systems, storage facilities, grading and assembling have a significant positive influence on food security by improving availability, accessibility and reducing distribution challenges. The study recommended that Government and private sector stakeholders should develop and promote stronger vertical integration among farmers, processors, marketing intermediaries to enhance the attainment of food security. Investment in modern storage facilities should be prioritized by relevant stakeholders to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure all year-round food availability