EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON FARMING SYSTEM USING IKOM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AS A CASE STUDY

1. Introduction Agriculture remains the primary livelihood source for many rural households in Nigeria, particularly in agrarian communities such as Ikom Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State. Farming systems in this region are largely rain-fed and depend heavily on predictable seasonal rainfall, moderate temperatures, and fertile soils. However, climate change has increasingly disrupted these environmental conditions, posing serious challenges to agricultural productivity and food security. Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events resulting largely from increased greenhouse gas emissions. Reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicate that Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate variability due to its dependence on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture. Studies published in journals such as Agricultural Systems, Climate and Development, and the African Journal of Agricultural Research consistently show that changing rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, flooding, and rising temperatures significantly affect crop yields and farming practices across Nigeria. In Ikom LGA, where crops such as cassava, yam, maize, plantain, cocoa, and vegetables are widely cultivated, fluctuations in rainfall and temperature have reportedly altered planting seasons, reduced yields, and increased pest infestations. This study examines how climate change affects farming systems in Ikom and how farmers are responding to these changes. 2. Statement of the Problem Farmers in Ikom LGA increasingly experience irregular rainfall, flooding, soil degradation, and extreme heat conditions. These environmental changes have led to: Reduced crop productivity Crop failure and food shortages Increased cost of farm inputs Decline in farmers’ income Despite these challenges, there is limited localized research documenting the specific impacts of climate change on farming systems in Ikom LGA. This study seeks to bridge this gap. 3. Objectives of the Study To examine the major indicators of climate change observed in Ikom LGA. To assess the effects of climate change on crop production and farming systems. To identify challenges faced by farmers due to climate variability. To examine adaptation strategies adopted by farmers in the area. To suggest measures for improving climate resilience in farming systems. 4. Conceptual Clarifications 4.1 Climate Change Climate change refers to persistent alterations in weather patterns over long periods, including increased temperatures, erratic rainfall, droughts, and flooding. 4.2 Farming System A farming system is the organization of agricultural production, including cropping patterns, livestock management, labor use, and resource allocation within a farm household. 5. Review of Related Literature 5.1 Climate Change and Agriculture in Nigeria Research conducted in southern Nigeria shows that rainfall unpredictability significantly reduces maize and cassava yields. Studies published in Climate Risk Management and Environmental Development report that smallholder farmers face high vulnerability due to reliance on rain-fed agriculture. In Cross River State specifically, rising temperatures and shifting rainfall seasons have affected cocoa production and increased pest and disease outbreaks. 5.2 Effects of Climate Change on Farming Systems Empirical studies across Nigeria and West Africa identify the following major effects: Irregular Rainfall Patterns: Late onset and early cessation of rainfall disrupt planting calendars. Flooding: Excess rainfall destroys crops and causes soil erosion. Drought: Prolonged dry spells reduce soil moisture and crop growth. Increased Pest and Disease Incidence: Warmer temperatures favor pest multiplication. Decline in Soil Fertility: Heavy rainfall leads to nutrient leaching. Research in the Journal of Agricultural Extension indicates that climate variability has forced farmers to modify traditional farming systems, including shifting planting dates and diversifying crops. 6. Effects of Climate Change on Farming System in Ikom LGA Based on regional agricultural patterns, the following impacts are likely significant: 6.1 Altered Planting Seasons Farmers experience uncertainty regarding when to plant due to unpredictable rainfall onset. 6.2 Reduced Crop Yield High temperatures and inconsistent rainfall negatively affect staple crops such as maize and cassava.