LIVELIHOOD ACTIVITIES AND DETERMINANTS OF ADOPTION OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES AMONG FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Study gaps still exist despite the growing number of climate change and adaptation studies. Earlier studies frequently focus on the adaptation strategies used, but they need more understanding of the institutional and socioeconomic factors affecting these choices. Furthermore, although livelihood activities diversification is acknowledged as a coping strategy against climate shocks, more is needed to know about the direct relationship between livelihood activities and adopting adaptation strategies. This study examined livelihood activities and the determinants of adopting climate change adaptation strategies among farming households in Oyo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 farming households. Data collection was done with the aid of a questionnaire designed to meet the objectives of the study. Analysis of socioeconomic characteristics and choices of adaptation strategies was done using percentages. In contrast, a binary logistic regression model was used to establish the factors influencing the likelihood of adopting adaptation strategies. The result from the study indicated that the majority (94.1%) of the household heads were between 60 years of age and below, with an average household head being 48.5 years and more than half (60%) male. Adjustment of farming operation time was adopted by the majority (84.4%) of the farmers. The binary logistic regression model highlighted that the likelihood of adopting adaptation strategies by farming households included the household heads' age (β= 0.413), sex (β= 0.210), household size (β= 0.144), farm income (β= 0.454), access to credit (β= 0.147), membership of cooperative (β= 0.344), access to weather information (β= 0.165) and crop farming as a livelihood activity (β= 0.013). This study recommends that an adequate and timely supply of weather and climate change information be provided to the farmers and regular credit access, as this is crucial for improved adoption of climate change adaptation strategies.