EFFECT OF CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES ON RICE YIELD AMONG RICE FARMERS IN EDU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study examined Climate-Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices and rice production in Kwara State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to (i) describe the socio-economic characteristics of respondents;(ii) identify the CSA practices adopted by rice farmers; (iii) access the perceived effect of CSA practices adopted by rice farmer; and (iv) examine the constraints faced by rice farmer using CSA practices. A two-stage sampling technique was employed to select 120 rice farmers in Edu local government area of kwara state. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Research design used for the study was Survey. Analytical tools used include: descriptive statistics, Likert-type scale, correlation analysis and chi-square test. Results revealed that the average age of respondents was 41.9 years, with the majority being male (94.2%) and married (91.7%). Commonly used CSA practices included drought-tolerant seed varieties, pesticide use, and early maturing varieties, while less used practice is moderate use of organic fertilizer. Correlation analysis showed that Household size significantly influenced CSA usage. Key constraints identified included high cost of input and adulterated chemical, limited access to credit and farmer-herder conflicts. The study concludes that CSA practices enhance rice productivity and recommends policy support in terms of farmer education, financial incentives, and value chain support. Promoting climate resilience through CSA is essential for sustainable rice production in Kwara State. Keyword: CSA, Climate-smart Agricultural Practices.