Adoption of climate change adaptation strategies and yield of maize in Ogun state, Nigeria: Does microcredit access matter?

Abstract

The study focused on assessing the influence of microcredit access on the adoption of climate change adaptation strategies and maize yield in Ogun State, Nigeria. It employed a sample of 120 farmers selected through a multistage sampling technique, and data were gathered via well-structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression model, and multiple regression analysis were utilized for data analysis. The study found that a majority (53.3%) of respondents were male, with a mean age of 49 years. The main adaptation strategies adopted by maize farmers in response to climate change variations included engagement in non-farm activities (72.5%), use of fertilizer/manure (70.8%), high-quality-improved seeds (59.2%), shifting cultivation (57.5%), and irrigation (56.7%). Results from the binary logistic regression model revealed a direct significant relationship between microcredit access and adoption of climate change adaptation strategies. Additionally, the multiple regression analysis revealed that access to microcredit, along with other socio-economic factors like sex, household size, farm size, experience, and membership of farmers’ association, had a significantly positive effect on maize yield. The study concluded that microcredit played a vital role in helping farmers adapt to climate change and boost maize productivity in the study area. Consequently, implementing accessible and affordable microcredit schemes could be a strategic move for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize in supporting farmers and fostering resilience in the face of climate challenges. This approach could potentially enhance farmers' resilience to climate change and contribute to improved agricultural productivity in the region.