Climate Change and Livelihood Diversification in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change poses increasing challenges to livelihood security by affecting natural resources, income-generating activities and household welfare in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. This study examined the effects of climate change on livelihoods and assessed livelihood diversification strategies adopted by respondents in Nasarawa State. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The target population comprised adult residents engaged in livelihood activities, and a sample size of 400 respondents was determined using Yamane's formula. A multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents, while primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews. Of the 400 questionnaires administered, 388 were retrieved and found valid for analysis. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, while interview responses were interpreted to complement the quantitative findings. The study finds out that reduced availability of natural resources was the most reported effect of climate change, identified by 59 respondents (15%), indicating increasing pressure on livelihood resources in the study area. The study also established that respondents adopted different livelihood diversification strategies, particularly additional wage employment and smallscale enterprises. The study recommends that government and relevant agencies strengthen support for livelihood diversification through accessible credit, entrepreneurship training, vocational skills and market opportunities to enable residents to develop alternative sources of income and reduce vulnerability to climate-related livelihood shocks.