ASSESSMENT OF PERCEPTION OF FARMERS ON THE EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE

The study assessed the perception of farmers on the effect of climate change among cowpea farmers in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State. The specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, investigate the causes of climate change, examine the level of awareness of farmers on the effect of climate change, determine the level of perception of farmers on the effect of climate change, and identify the possible climate change adaptation options adopted by farmers in the study area. The study was based on 80 questionnaires administered to the respondents. The study revealed that majority (71.3%) of the respondents were male while 53.8% were within the age category of 31–40 years. Majority (78.8%) of the respondents were married. Most (35.0%) of the respondents attained secondary school education. The findings also revealed that 42.5% of the respondents had a household size of 5–9 members. Majority (56.3%) of the respondents had access to credit. Majority (56.3%) had farm experience of 11–15 years. The study revealed that 97.5% of respondents indicated that climate change was caused by destruction of vegetation/trees while 95.1% reported supernatural forces (God). The study revealed that majority (95.0%) of the respondents were aware of climate change, with majority (66.3%) fully aware.The study revealed that climate change presents more risks than benefits to farmers and lowers crop production. Infestation of crops by pests and diseases was also identified as a major effect of climate change. The study recommended that farmers should be educated through extension services on the effects of climate change and the adaptation strategies required to reduce its impact