Adaptation Strategies to Climate Variability Among Maize Farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria

This study examined the adaptation strategies employed by maize farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 234 maize farmers, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that the most significant constraints were limited access to credit (85.5%), high labour costs (89.3%), and rising input prices (55.1%). Additionally, poor access to climate information was reported by 49.2% of respondents as a challenge. Climate change was found to affect maize production through frequent storms ( 4.72), rising crop disease incidence ( 4.44), and higher production costs ( 4.52). The most commonly adopted adaptation strategies were fertilizer application ( 3.75) and the use of improved maize varieties ( 2.97), while irrigation ( 1.69) and organic manure use ( 1.30) were less frequently employed. The study highlighted the importance of access to credit, reliable climate information, and strengthened extension services to enhance resilience. The study recommends strengthening extension services and leveraging agricultural associations such as the Maize Association of Nigeria (MAAN) by all stakeholders to deliver timely and accurate climate information.