Title: ASSESSMENT OF FLOOD OCCURRENCES AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES BY RICE FARMERS IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

Authors: Onu Y., Omede U. D. and Ajibade Y. E.

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: flood occurrences, adaptation strategies, rice farmers

Volume: 41

Issue: 1

Year: June 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2026.41.1.0021

Abstract: This study analysed flood occurrences and adaptation strategies among rice farmers in the flood-prone communities of Kogi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: describe the farmers' socioeconomic characteristics; assess the type and frequency of flooding; identify adaptation strategies used. Primary data were collected from a sample of 117 rice farmers selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation). The findings revealed that the farming population was predominantly male (58.97%), young (mean age 32.29 years), and highly literate, with 95.72% having attained secondary or tertiary education. Riverine flooding was identified as the most significant decadal threat (reported by 91.45%), while other flood types occurred more frequently on an annual basis. The most widely adopted adaptation strategy was the introduction of new crops (88.89%). Introduction and increased animal production with application of inorganic fertilizer (76.07%) ranked 2nd strategy while Dry season farming (irrigation) (74.36%) ranked 4th adaptation strategy among others engaged by rice farmers in the study area. Key recommendations include developing gender-sensitive extension, enhancing farmer training, strengthening cooperatives, and improving access to financial services and climate insurance.