Population continues to increase in the urban centers in Nigeria thereby deepening the crises
of food insecurity and unemployment. There is the dearth of job opportunity especially among the
youth and the need arises to look inward for job creation rather than seeking for one. A quick solution
to the twin problems of food insecurity and unemployment may be attained by embracing backyard
farming which may require little start-up capital. This study investigated the economic viability of
backyard farming in Osun State. Primary data were collected from 120 respondents who engaged in
backyard agriculture in Ife Central Local Government Area in the state. The data were analyzed using
descriptive statistics, budgetary technique and some profitability ratios. Results revealed that the
respondents were mostly men (65%), having their primary occupation in different activities (81%) and
engage in farming within their buildings (86%). The prominent enterprises were fruits and vegetable
production (43%), poultry keeping (19%) and fish farming (21%). A total cost of N16, 500.57 was
incurred by the average backyard farmer. Fixed cost was low being only three percent of the total cost.
This may not be unconnected with the fact that there is no need to further incur cost on land, building
and machinery. It is evident that backyard farming requires a little start-up capital which could be an
incentive to young entrepreneurs who usually find it difficult to attract initial investment fund. The
average total revenue was N61, 113.35 with gross margin and net revenue of N47, 765.38 and N44,
612.78 respectively. The Benefit Cost Ratio, Expense Structure Ratio, Rate of Return and Gross Ratio
were 3.7; 0.07; 2.7 and 0.27 respectively. Backyard farming is thus highly profitable as suggested by
these indicators. It is a good point of entry into agribusiness for young entrepreneurs and holds good
prospect for food security, alternative income generation and poverty alleviation in the urban areas.