(a) Draw an outline map of Nigeria. On the map, locate: (i) one area each for the production of cocoa, palm produce, groundnut and cotton. (ii) three towns ...

(a) Outline map of Nigeria showing cash-crop producing areas and towns

Key: The labelled dots show towns: Akure, Enugu, Kano and Zaria. The shaded or labelled areas show the main producing zones for cocoa, palm produce, groundnut and cotton.

(b) Three major problems of agriculture in Nigeria

1. Inadequate capital and credit facilities: Many farmers cannot obtain sufficient money to buy land, machinery, fertiliser, improved seeds and other farm inputs.
2. Primitive farming methods: The use of hoes and cutlasses on small scattered holdings results in low output and makes mechanisation difficult.
3. Pests, diseases and adverse weather: Insect pests, crop diseases, livestock diseases, drought and floods destroy crops and animals.

(c) Solutions to the problems

1. Government, agricultural banks and co-operative societies should provide farmers with adequate, low-interest loans and subsidies for farm inputs.
2. Farmers should be encouraged to use tractors and other machines, improved seeds, fertilisers and extension services. Land reform and consolidation should also be carried out to reduce fragmentation of farm holdings.
3. Extension officers should educate farmers on the proper use of insecticides, fungicides and veterinary drugs. Irrigation, drainage and flood-control schemes should be developed to reduce dependence on unreliable rainfall.