Effects of Climate Change Variability on Physical, Natural, and Financial Livelihood Assets of Rural Farmers in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated the effect of climate change variability on the livelihood assets of the rural farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to ascertain farmers’ awareness of climate change signs; sources of information on climate change; identify the livelihood activities of respondents; and describe the effect of climate change on the livelihood assets of the farmers. A purposive sampling technique was used in selecting a sample size of 120 respondents. Data were collected by use of a structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The result revealed that the major signs of climate change included increased temperature, unpredictable rainfall patterns, drought, flooding, increased precipitation, crop damage, and others. The major livelihood activities of the respondents in the study area include crop farming, poultry farming, fishing and fish farming, trading, and livestock rearing. Climate change affects the livelihood of rural people and can be seen in the effects it has on their physical, natural, and financial capital. We recommend that rural people should be well educated on the issue of climate change and made aware of its various effects so that they can get a good understanding of the concept before devising ways to battle it.