10th U6+ Consortium of African Universities International Conference

Climate change poses serious threats to farmers by increasing risks that directly and indirectly affect agricultural productivity, household livelihoods, and food security. In emerging economies such as Nigeria, climate variability has contributed to unstable and declining agricultural output. Farmers face challenges including erratic weather patterns, droughts, floods, and temperature fluctuations, all of which significantly reduce yields, particularly for staple crops like maize. This study investigates the impact of Climate-Smart Agricultural Technologies (CSATs) on the welfare of maize farmers in Nigeria. The objectives are to identify the CSATs used in the study area, assess adoption levels among farmers, evaluate their effects on productivity and income, examine their influence on household food security, and identify constraints limiting their use. Primary data were collected from 152 randomly selected maize farmers using structured questionnaires and a three-stage sampling technique. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the effect of CSAT adoption on food security, while an instrumental variable regression assessed its impact on productivity and income. The results reveal a marked gender imbalance, with 96.71% of respondents being male. Key factors such as education, household size, farming experience, and the use of integrated pest management positively influence productivity. Similarly, education, farm size, and years of CSAT adoption significantly enhance farmers’ income and improve household food security. Drought-resistant technologies are the most widely adopted CSATs, though broader and more integrated use is needed to strengthen climate resilience. While practices such as irrigation and pest management are gaining traction, advanced methods like vertical farming remain underutilized. Major barriers include limited access to extension services, inadequate financing, and high input costs. The study recommends stronger institutional support, improved farmer education, and targeted policy interventions to promote CSAT adoption, enhance agricultural sustainability, and strengthen food security.