10th U6+ Consortium of African Universities International Conference

The realities of climate change have unequivocally touched on all human endeavors leading to adjustments in lifestyles and adapting to its effects. The rural people, the majority of whom the means of livelihood are particularly connected to climate related events seem to be the most vulnerable. This study aimed to examine the adaptation strategies of the inhabitants of Sentu, a rural community of Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, with a view to suggesting sustainable policy issues. Primary data on socioeconomic indices of respondents, observed changes in the environment, the impacts of the climate changes on the residents’ livelihood and the adaptation strategies were collected using two hundred and thirty-one (231) structured questionnaires administered to all adult household representatives of the village. The response rate of 98% was recorded and used for the analysis. Descriptive statistics were used present results on the socioeconomic data, while chi-square statistics were used to examine the relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics and adaptation strategies of the respondents. The study revealed that majority of the respondents were 35 years and above, married and of Yoruba ethnic group. There were more farmers than any other occupation and the majority had stayed more than 21 years in the study area. Large number of the respondents got signals concerning climate change threats through indigenous knowledge and the elders. During climate related disasters, majority of the respondents made use of their natural ingenuities as coping mechanisms while very insignificant supports were received from the government. The Chi-square result showed significant relationships between age, monthly income, educational qualifications, ethnicity and length of stay and adaptation strategies of respondents, while no significant relationship exists between gender, occupation, marital status and adaptation strategies. The study therefore recommended more government efforts in disseminating information on future impending climatic-related threats to the residents. Government should provide maximum supports for the people of Sentu during climate change related disasters, particularly when their means of livelihood are affected. Empowerment initiatives to the vulnerable community members in form of extension services, distribution of hybrid varieties and climate resistant crops.