Yobe State, Nigerian Millet Farmers' Perceptions on Climate Change and Adapted Mitigation Strategies

Abstract

The research evaluated how millet farmers in Yobe State, Nigeria, perceived and mitigated climate change. 305 millet growers were chosen for the research 
using a multistage sampling technique. FGD and structured questionnaires were the main methods used to gather data. The generated data was analysed using 
frequency count, percentage, ranking, and Spearman rank order correlation. Additionally, millet farmers' perceptions of climate change and mitigation 
techniques were assessed using a Likert-type scale. According to the results, 29.5% of respondents cited the NIMET report, radio (20%), extension agent 
(18%), and friends (10.5%) as their primary sources of knowledge on climate change. Based on respondents' perceptions of climate change, important 
indicators were determined to include drought (x ̅ = 3.3), desertification (x ̅ = 3.3), rainfall (x ̅ = 3.2), temperature (x ̅ = 3.2), and drying of rivers and streams 
(x ̅ = 3.2). The mitigation measures used by millet farmers to address the impact of climate change in the research region included planting trees (x ̅ = 3.5), 
timely planting (x ̅ = 3.3), planting early and drought-resistant type (x ̅ = 3.2), and using organic manure (x ̅ = 3.1). A very strong positive correlation between 
the variables is shown by the hypothesis test result (rs = 0.982). The table value of 2.306 at P<0.05 is less than the computed t-value of 14.699. The result 
demonstrates a strong correlation between the factors. The study suggested that government organisations and other stakeholders should give agricultural 
research and institutions more funding and support in order to develop climate-resilient technologies, improved varieties, and sustainable farming practices. 
It also suggested that extension agents and millet farmers participate in training and workshops on climate smart agricultural practices.