ANALYSIS OF FLOOD ADAPTIVE MEASURES TOWARDS MITIGATING CLIMATE CHANGE AMONG SMALL-SCALE RICE FARMERS IN JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study analysed the flood adaptive measures toward mitigating climate change among small-scale rice farmers in Jigawa State, Nigeria. A Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 407 respondents for the study. Primary data were collected using Computer Aided Programmed Interview (CAPI). The study employed descriptive and inferential statistics for data analysis. Results revealed that most respondents were male (82.8%), married (95.1%), with an average age of 43 years, household size of 9, and farm size of 2 ha. About 69% had formal education and 19 years of farming experience. JARDA (95.8%) was the main information source, and 81.1% accessed credit. Flood information was mainly obtained from radio (67.1%) and farmer associations (28.5%), with updates received fortnightly (73.9%). High rainfall (97.5%) and water release from HJRVP (74.9%) were identified as major flood causes. The study revealed that most farmers adapted to flooding by adjusting planting dates (73%) and using flood-tolerant rice varieties (38.6%). Regression analysis showed that adoption of these measures was significantly influenced by marital status, farm size, credit access, farming experience, and land ownership. The study concludes that adopting flood-tolerant and early-maturing rice varieties, adjusting planting dates, and improving access to credit are key adaptive strategies for small-scale rice farmers in Jigawa State. Strengthening early warning systems, irrigation, and farmer education will enhance resilience, reduce flood risks, and promote sustainable rice production and food security.