Sustainability of Climate Change Adaptation Measures in South-South, Nigeria

The rampaging effects of climate change on Nigeria agriculture cannot be totally undermined, hence, the sustainability of climate change adaptation measures in South-South, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 142 farmers who were interviewed to elicit information bordering on climate change in the area. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ordinary least square multiple regression technique and the scaling model. Results showed that the socio-economic factors investigated influenced the decisiveness of the farmers in embracing adaptive strategies to checkmate the overindulgence of climatic variations in the area. Age of the farmers, educational level, household size, farming experience, farm size, extension contacts were all positive and significant factors. Result also shows that there is increasing rate of temperature, rainfall volume, sunshine hours and number of rainy days and decreasing rate of light intensity and wind. The adaptation techniques of the farmers were classified into highly sustainable adaptation strategies which include; use of pest and disease resistant varieties, use of organic fertilizers, tree planting, early information seeking on climate change etc and slightly sustainable; planting of different crop varieties, mulching, mixed cropping, etc. All the farmers in the area perceived inadequate capital as a major constraint in coping with climate change effects. Hence, this study recommends government all levels to sensitize the crop farmers on the devastating effects of climate change on agriculture as well as provide supports where necessary to cushion its negative impacts.