Assessment of the Effects of Climate Change on Cassava Productivity in Southwest, Nigeria

The globally threat to food security and farmers’ well-being through climate change and its related issues has exacerbated in recent years. In Nigeria, as also in the global scene, concerns among climate stake-holders have heightened. This paper, therefore, assesses the impact of climate change on cassava productivity in southwest Nigeria using a panel fixed effect approach, 1990 to 2020. Data on market price, output, yield and cultivated area of cassava were obtained from FAO statistical data base while that of rainfall and temperature were sourced from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET). The data were analysed with descriptive statistics, graphs and a fixed effect panel regression. The Cassava yield trends revealed a general increase in five states, with Ogun experiencing a notable decline. Land allocation, Growing Degree Days (GDD), and rainfall exhibited an uneven variability among states. Ogun state had the highest mean output values and land area devoted cassava production. The regression results emphasized the significant positive impact of cassava price on yield, challenging the expected negative influence of climate change. Recommendations include formulating climate-resilient policies, encouraging adaptive practices among farmers, and providing support through donor agencies.