Food Security: The Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Production in Rural Areas of Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analysed the impact of climate change on agricultural production with reference to farming activities in the rural areas of Afijio Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo State, Nigeria. The research design adopted for this study was a descriptive survey with data collected through primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected via interviews and focus groups with local agricultural producers, while secondary data sources include scientific journals and other relevant studies. Two hundred (200) copies of questionnaire were produced and administered on the randomly selected respondents. Statistical tools such as simple frequency counts, percentages, and correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. The results obtained revealed that, the vast majority of people in the area dependent on rainfall for agricultural activities, especially farming. Most of the crops in the area are rain-fed and these include, among others, cassava, maize, yam and vegetables. The results further revealed that, climate change has impacts on farming activities. Also, result further showed that improved yield lowers crop prices and enhances income generation, job creation and poverty reduction. It was concluded that, there are several opportunities for the government, policy makers, and local authorities to make the rural areas benefit more from agroeconomic activities if necessary proactive measures are put in place. The study recommends implementation of intensive irrigation projects by the government at all levels in order to address the problems of climate change and boost the agricultural production, reduce prices of agricultural produce, so that, food supply and security can be sustained at moderate prices in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, in particular, and Nigeria in general.