Determinants of the intensity of climate-smart agricultural practices among smallholder millet farmers in Jigawa state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of the intensity of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAPs) among smallholder millet farmers in Jigawa State, Nigeria. While previous studies have largely focused on the adoption or impact of CSAPs on food security, limited attention has been given to the frequency and intensity of usage of these practices. Using primary data collected from 262 smallholder millet farmers through a multistage sampling technique, the study constructed a composite CSAP intensity index based on the frequency of use of 13 climate-smart practices measured on a 4-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics and Tobit regression analysis were employed to identify factors influencing the intensity of CSAP usage. The results revealed that the majority of farmers were medium users of CSAPs, indicating partial integration of climate-smart practices into farming systems. The Tobit regression results showed that education, farm size, household income, access to extension services, and cooperative membership positively and significantly influenced the intensity of CSAP usage, while age and household size exhibited mixed effects. The study concludes that socio-economic and institutional factors play a critical role not just in the adoption, but in the sustained and frequent use of CSAPs. It recommends strengthening extension services, improving access to credit, and promoting farmer-based organizations to enhance the intensity of CSAP usage and improve agricultural resilience.

Keywords: Climate smart agriculture practices, determinants, smallholders, adoption, Nigeria