Socio-Economic and Institutional Predictors of Climate Change Adaptation Among Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change presents significant challenges for smallholder dairy farmers, especially in developing countries where production relies heavily on natural resources. This study examined factors linked to climate change adaptation among smallholder dairy farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 farmers selected through multistage sampling across eight major dairy-producing Local Government Areas. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square test, one-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. The results showed that dairy farming is mostly practised by economically active male farmers. Many respondents noticed changes in rainfall and rising temperatures, but awareness of climate change and its impact on dairy production was generally low. Farmers identified seasonal feed shortages, declining forage quality, water scarcity, heat stress, and reduced feed intake as key challenges. While some adaptation measures, such as adjusting grazing practices and water management, had been adopted, many found them to be ineffective. Regression analysis indicated that education, climate change awareness, access to extension services, and feed availability significantly influenced adaptation outcomes, with the model explaining 61.0% of the variation (R2 = 0.610). Access to extension services had the strongest impact. The results highlight the need to strengthen institutional support to boost smallholder farmers’ adaptive capacity. Enhancing livestock extension programmes, raising awareness about climate change, improving access to information, and promoting climate-smart dairy management and sustainable feed practices can improve the resilience and sustainability of dairy systems in Plateau State and similar regions.