Perceived Effects of Climate Change on Crop Production in Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant menace to agriculture sector globally, especially crop production. This study focused on perceived effects of climate change on crop production. A sample size of 103 students was surveyed for this study using a questionnaire. Data obtained were summarized and presented using descriptive statistics (frequency counts, tables and means) while inferential statistical tools such as Chi-square and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation were used for analysis. Results indicated a high awareness (98.1%) of climate change among respondents. The dominant sources of awareness about climate change include social media (89.3%), television (82.5%) and radio (81.6%). Students observed changes mostly in temperature (x̄ = 2.71), heat waves (x̄ = 2.62) and rainfall (x̄ = 2.58) and other climate indicators in the last 5 years (2019-2023). The respondents identified deforestation (82.5%), burning fossil fuels (68.9%), and urbanization (52.4%) as the major drivers of climate change. The respondents’ perceived effects of climate change on crop production were decreased crop yields (x̄ = 2.83), crop damage from the storms (x̄ = 2.66), and crop failure (x̄ = 2.64). There existed a significant relationship (p<0.05) between the respondents' sources of awareness (χ2 = 1.672, p=0.000) and perceived effects of climate change. The cumulative effect of climate change on crop production could be felt more on food availability in the study area. There is a need to enlighten students on the human activities that aggravate the state of climate.