ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION STRATEGIES ADOPTED BY CROP FARMERS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Agriculture is highly dependent on climate. Hence, climate change is expected to have in-depth effect on household economies. This study ascertained farmers’ perception on the effect of climate change; identified the mitigation strategies used by the crop farmers; and, determined determinants of adaptation to climate change mitigation strategies in Niger State. A multistage sampling technique was employed in selecting 180 respondents for the study. Data was elicited through primary sources using structured questionnaire. Weighted Average Index (WAI), Kendall coefficient of concordance, descriptive statistics, and logistic regression were used for analyses. The result shows that farmers had different perception on the indicators of climate change. The top most amongst the indicators perceived were unusual timing of onset and cessation of rains/harmattan (4.71),dusty and cloudy atmosphere when it should be clear (4.59), and unstable temperature (4.41) indicating that there is variation in weather condition. The study established that farmers employ some adaptation strategies to manage climatic stimuli. The most used strategies were: planting of improved varieties, change in planting dates, and application of inorganic fertilizer. The Kendall coefficient of concordance was 0.810; implying agreement among the respondents. The determinants of adaptation to climate change mitigation include: gender, age, household size, amount of credit, farm size, extension contact and income level. With proper attention on these variables output could increase to check the effect of climate variation experienced by the crop farming households. It is recommended that: Niger State Ministry charged with the provision of agricultural extension services should be strengthened by creating a unit to handle climate change issues with a view to educating farmers on the effect of climate change and mitigation strategies; and, government should establish sustainable credit scheme which will empower crop farmers financially to be able to implement appropriate adaptation measures.
Keywords: Adaptation,