Climate Change Information and Potato Production in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The study examined climate change information and potato production in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. About 96 potato farmers were selected using a purposive method. Primary information on the objectives of the study was collected with questionnaire and analysed using percentages, charts, and the probit regression model. The results show that potato farmers were of a productive age, married, experienced, and relatively educated. Most of the potato growers (90.6%) were highly aware of the changing climate disturbance. Radio (97.9%), fellow farmers (98.9%), workshops/training (91.7%), and newspapers (10.4%) formed sources of climate information. The farmers’ adaptation strategies were modifying planting dates (77.1%), using drought-resistant varieties (86.5%), applying irrigation methods (54.2%), diversifying crops (97.9%), practising crop rotation (93.8%) and organic farming (98.9%). Probit regression analysis indicated that education (P < 0.01), household size (P < 0.01), farming experience (P < 0.01), access to early climate change information (P < 0.01), and extension contacts (P < 0.1) were favourable determinants. In conclusion, potato farmers faced several challenges including climate-related issues, pests and diseases, limited resources and credit access, soil quality and fertility problems, and market fluctuations. The study's originality stems from its research survey in linking climate information to potato production and advancing potato farmers' knowledge. The study recommended the implementation of educational programs that focus on climate change awareness, sustainable farming practices, and the use of climate-smart technologies and seeking early climate information and extension services in improving crop performance.