Economic evaluation of the Anambra/Imo (ANIMO) rice project in Nigeria

The last decade in Nigeria witnessed the genesis of many government-sponsored agricultural projects. These projects, which are financed partly through loans and partly from the oil revenue, are aimed at reversing the downward trend in food production and making the nation self-sufficient in food. The colossal investment in agriculture has, however, not shown appreciative results.

In this paper attempts are made at evaluating one of such projects and at developing a framework for such, especially where adequate time-series data are not available. The ANIMO project, which was initiated in 1976, was aimed at increasing rice production through the introduction of modern farming practices and new varieties of seeds. As at 1981 the social direct cost of production was estimated at

for the project participating farmers. Despite the high overhead costs, the difference in benefits attributable to the project was less than 5 per cent, with the actual net benefit falling short of anticipated estimates by over 70 per cent.