Impacts of Climate Variability on Wetland and Fishing Households in the Niger Delta Region, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the impacts of climate variability on wetland and fishing households in the Niger Delta region, Nigeria. Three hundred and twenty four respondents were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Primary data were collected using questionnaire, in-depth interview and focus group discussion, while secondary data was collected from literature. Descriptive statistics including frequency and percentage were used for data analysis. Climate variability has brought about drought, flood, sea level rise and erosion. These have adversely impacted on farm households in various ways including loss of farmland and farm produce, displacement of residents and loss of property including residential buildings and fishing gadgets. Other adverse impacts include health problems, conflict, increased expenditure, poor yield and loss of income. Gender analysis of the impacts of climate variability shows that both men and women are equally impacted upon. Adaptation strategies should be developed to help in reducing the impact of climate variability on farm households.