UTILIZATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE INFORMATION BY GENDER FOR CLIMATE ADAPTATION AMONG ARABLE CROP FARMERS IN OYIGBO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The use of relevant climate information by farmers will enhance their capacity to adapt to the risk associated with climate change. The study analyzed utilization of climate information for climate adaptation among arable crop farmers in Oyigbo Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study was designed to; identify the types of crops cultivated, determine how they perceive and experience climate change, identify the types of sources information available to them and determine the level utilization of climate information received by gender. Multi stage sampling procedure was used to select 160 (80 males and 80 females) respondent. Questionnaire and personal interviews were used to elicit data from the respondents. Data collected were analysed using mean, percentage, bar chart, likert scale. Results revealed that the type of crops cultivated by respondents showed that male and female arable crop producers cultivate same crops with slight difference of 72 males as against 70 females cultivated maize. It was also discovered that both the male and female respondents have perceived and are currently experiencing climate change in form of late coming of rain, increased flooding, weed, pest and disease etc. The findings also revealed that greater number of the respondents got climate information through radio (80 females and 76 males). Findings equally showed that females utilized the information received more than the males. Based on the findings it was recommended that there is the need for climate information programme planners to formulate programs that are not too complex but easy to understand and make sure such information are communicated effectively to the vulnerable set as to enable them understand.