Vulnerability to Climate Shocks and Its Determinants: Insights from Farming Households in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the vulnerability of farming households in Nigeria to climate shocks, a critical challenge affecting agricultural productivity and food security in developing regions. Using data from the Nigeria General Household Survey (GHS-Panel) across waves 2-4, the study profiles households based on socio-economic characteristics and evaluates the determinants of vulnerability through a Three-Stage Feasible Generalized Least Squares (3-SFGLS) model. The results reveal that over 61% of farming households are vulnerable to climate shocks, with significant contributing factors including poor rainfall, flooding, farmer-herder conflicts, limited access to credit, and low levels of education. Vulnerable households often exhibit smaller farm sizes, reliance on informal credit, and limited adaptive capacity, highlighting the critical role of socio-economic and institutional barriers. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions, such as improving access to climate-resilient farming practices, expanding formal credit access, enhancing education, and strengthening community-based adaptation mechanisms. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to enhance household resilience and ensure sustainable agricultural development amidst increasing climate variability.