Smallholder Farmers’ Perception on Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies in Kuje Area Council, FCT, Abuja

This study examined farmers' perceptions of climate change and adaptation strategies in Kuje Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 75 respondents from a list of 122 registered smallholder farmers across five wards: Kiyi, Shaji, Rubochi, Chukuku, and Jeli. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and interview schedule, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a 4-point Likert scale. The findings showed that 66.7% of the farmers were male, and 40% had attained tertiary education, indicating potential for adopting innovative climate practices. However, financial constraints and inadequate extension services were identified as major barriers. Additionally, 73% of the farmers were aware of climate change, with 63% observing climatic changes over time. Soil erosion (53.3%), deforestation (46.7%), and water scarcity for irrigation (46.7%) emerged as significant challenges.The most frequently practiced climate adaptation strategies are conservation tillage (92.3%), crop diversification (80%), and early maturing crops (60%). Conversely, strategies such as irrigation (29.3%) and genetically modified crops (25.3%) are less commonly practiced. Limited access to information (42.67%) and difficulty in changing traditional farming practices (21.33%) further constrained adaptation efforts. The study concluded that farmers in the area face significant climate change challenges, including resource limitations, environmental degradation, and inadequate support for adaptation strategies. These challenges have a profound impact on agricultural productivity in the study area. Therefore, the study recommended strengthening extension services, improving access to credit, promoting conservation agriculture, and establishing reliable climate information systems to enhance farmers' resilience and productivity in the study region.