CLIMATE CHANGE AND FOOD SYSTEM RESILIENCE IN NIGERIA: IMPACTS ON AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY, FOOD SECURITY, AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES AMONG FARMERS IN ILORIN, KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a major global challenge with significant implications for agricultural productivity, 
food systems, and food security, particularly in developing countries that rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture. This 
study assessed the impact of climate change on food systems in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, with emphasis on 
farmers’ knowledge of climate change, its effects on agricultural productivity, and the adaptive strategies employed 
to mitigate these impacts. A cross-sectional mixed-methods design was adopted involving 236 farmers selected 
through a multistage sampling technique across Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West Local Government Areas. 
Quantitative data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires, while qualitative insights were 
obtained through focus group discussions with agricultural extension officers. Quantitative data were analyzed using 
descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests in SPSS version 27, while thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. 
The results revealed a high level of climate change awareness among farmers (97.9%), with extension workers 
serving as the primary source of information. A significant association was found between level of education and 
awareness of climate change (χ² = 39.891, p < 0.05). Most respondents (92.7%) reported that climate change has 
negatively affected agricultural productivity, particularly cereal crops, due to drought, unpredictable rainfall 
patterns, and increased pest infestations. Livestock production was also affected by heat stress, disease prevalence, 
and reduced feed and water availability. Focus group discussions corroborated these findings, highlighting irregular 
rainfall, extreme temperatures, and flooding as key climatic challenges affecting farming activities and food 
availability. Farmers adopted several adaptation strategies including crop rotation, use of improved drought-resistant 
seeds, irrigation, mulching, and livestock diversification. The study concludes that climate change poses significant 
threats to food systems and agricultural livelihoods in Ilorin. Strengthening extension services, promoting climate
resilient agricultural practices, and improving government support mechanisms are essential for enhancing food 
system resilience and sustainable food security.