Crop Farmers’ Perception of and Adaptation to Climate Change in Orlu Agricultural Zone of Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Food insecurity is a big challenge which Nigeria is currently battling with. This is compounded by the negative effects of climate change on agricultural production, and by extension, rural development. This work was therefore designed to ascertain crop farmers’ perception of, and adaptation to climate change in Orlu agricultural zone of Imo State. The objectives of the study were to: assess farmers’ level of awareness of elements of climate change, ascertain the extent farmers perceived climate change in the zone, find out the various effects of climate change in the area as perceived by the farmers, and ascertain the adjustment strategies adopted by the farmers. Data were collected from one hundred and twenty (120) crop farmers randomly selected from the zone, using interview schedule. Percentage, means, frequency distribution as well as multiple regression model were used to analyze the data. Most of the farmers (98.33%) experienced climate change in the area and that changes in rainfall pattern were most prominent. Farmers perceived reduced crop yield, drought and increased flooding, among others, as the greatest adverse effects of climate change. Some of the strategies adopted to combat the adverse effects included; adjustment in planting period, use of improved crop varieties, adoption of improved farming methods, among others. Age, farming experience, educational level and membership of social organizations were significant factors that influenced farmers’ perception of climate change in the area. Some of the recommendations include; extension agents should advice farmers to adopt early planting and harvesting before adverse climate conditions get to their peak, government and non-governmental organizations should assist farmers with irrigation facilities so that they will not be solely dependent on rain fed agriculture, among others.