ASSESSMENT OF INDIGENOUS FARMERS PERCEPTION OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN NORTH CENTRAL PART OF NIGERIA
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Africa is a continent significantly impacted by climate variability and change, with its farmers often facing considerable challenges due to shifting weather patterns. Optimal weather conditions are essential for maximizing agricultural productivity, yet natural resources such as land, water, air, and vegetation, which have traditionally provided a stable income for food crop growers, are increasingly being disrupted. Over time, many indigenous farmers in developing countries have witnessed substantial changes in their ecosystems, leading to a marked decline in agricultural yields. The adverse effects of climate change have been particularly severe, with food crops such as maize, sorghum, millet, rice, and legumes experiencing a dramatic reduction in production rates by approximately 94% (Odjogo, 2009). Climatic factors like rainfall have become increasingly irregular, temperatures have been rising, and forest cover has diminished. Consequently, planting periods and harvest times have been continually shifting. These disruptions have compelled farmers to adapt through a combination of traditional knowledge and innovative technological solutions aimed at mitigating climate variability (Ishaya and Abaje, 2008).
Climate change is conceptually understood as the long-term trends and characteristics of weather patterns over time. It includes both average weather conditions and their variability (Yekken, 2011). More precisely, climate change is defined as a significant alteration in weather events that persists over a period of a decade or more (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2007). The manifestations of climate change are varied and include shifts in average climatic conditions—such as transitioning towards drier or wetter lands, erratic rainfall patterns, and extreme temperature fluctuations—as well as the depletion of the ozone layer and the impacts of human activities like deforestation and industrialization (Mohammed et al., 2013; Audu, 2003). In northern Nigeria, for instance, projections indicate that reduced rainfall coupled with rising temperatures will decrease soil moisture availability (Ogbo et al., 2013). Nigeria’s extensive coastline, stretching approximately 853 km, exacerbates the vulnerability of coastal communities to rising sea levels and increased storm surges. Additionally, more than two-thirds of Nigeria’s land area is at risk of desertification and drought, which significantly influences water availability, health outcomes, and poverty levels, particularly in regions like North Central Nigeria. Farmers’ perceptions of climate risks and opportunities play a crucial role in shaping their adaptation strategies. These perceptions are influenced by local beliefs and understanding, which vary across different communities (Wolf and Moser, 2011). According to Adejuwon (2004), the impact of climate change on farmers extends beyond altered weather patterns to include the adaptation techniques employed to sustain food production, maintain a healthy environment, and retain soil moisture and quality.
In North Central Nigeria, indigenous adaptation strategies to climate change include utilizing wetlands, practicing contour cropping on slopes, planting at greater depths than usual, applying intensive manure, relocating to new agricultural sites, adjusting planting dates, engaging in agroforestry, and alternating between animal and crop farming (Blessing et al., 2011). These strategies are considered “indigenous” because they rely on locally available resources and involve minimal technological intervention. To gain a deeper understanding of these adaptation practices, a survey will be conducted to assess the perceptions of indigenous farmers regarding climate change in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The perception of climate change among indigenous farmers is shaped by a range of factors. Danladi (2019) found that farmers’ perceptions of climate change are closely linked to their adaptation strategies, indicating that recognizing climate-related issues is a crucial first step toward effective adaptation. Mustafa (2014) noted that farmers’ experiences with climate change over time have heightened their awareness and prompted the development of adaptation strategies. Grothmann and Patt (2005) emphasize that perception is a key prerequisite for adaptation. Farmers have observed changes in rainfall and temperature patterns as indicators of climate change. Moreover, Adger et al. (2007) argue that social constraints, including technology availability, knowledge, and societal perceptions, fundamentally limit climate change adaptation efforts. This study aims to address these gaps by evaluating indigenous farmers’ perceptions of climate change in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, providing insights into how these perceptions influence their adaptation strategies.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of indigenous farmers regarding climate change in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State. The specific objectives are:
- To evaluate the level of awareness among farmers about climate change in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
- To assess the perceived impact of climate change on agricultural practices among farmers in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
- To determine farmers’ perceptions of their vulnerability to climate change in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
1.4 Research Questions
The study will address the following questions:
- To what extent are farmers in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State aware of climate change and its implications?
- How do farmers in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State perceive the impact of climate change on their agricultural practices and productivity?
- What level of vulnerability do farmers in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State believe they face in relation to climate change?
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study holds significant value for various stakeholders. For NGOs, it provides a detailed understanding of the specific challenges faced by indigenous farmers, enabling them to implement targeted projects and initiatives to support adaptation and resilience-building. The findings will also inform government agencies, guiding the development of policies and programs designed to assist indigenous communities in adapting to environmental changes. Furthermore, this research will serve as a valuable resource for future academic studies, offering a comprehensive literature review for researchers interested in climate change adaptation in indigenous farming communities. The study will contribute substantially to the academic knowledge base on indigenous farmers’ perceptions of climate change, particularly in the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
1.6 Scope of the Study
This study focuses on evaluating the perceptions of indigenous farmers regarding climate change within the Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State. The geographical scope is limited to this area, and the study will specifically address the perceptions and experiences of residents within this local government area.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, the researcher encountered several constraints. These included time limitations, financial constraints, language barriers, and the attitudes of respondents. Additionally, researcher bias could have influenced aspects of data collection, participant selection, and data interpretation. These limitations may affect the study’s findings and conclusions. Furthermore, the results are specific to the sample population in the Isin Local Government Area and may not be generalizable to other regions, local governments, or countries.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Indigenous Farming: Refers to traditional farming practices that have been developed over time and rely on local resources without the need for external inputs. These techniques are often low-cost and rooted in historical agroforestry systems.
Perception: Involves the beliefs or opinions held by individuals based on their interpretation of their environment and experiences. It reflects how people understand and apply meaning to their observations and experiences (Blaikie et al., 1997).
Climate Change: Refers to long-term shifts and trends in weather patterns, including both average conditions and their variability over extended periods (Yekken, 2011).
Adaptation Strategies: Involves identifying and implementing methods to adjust to climate change, evaluated based on their availability, benefits, costs, effectiveness, and feasibility (IPCC, 2001).