SUSTAINABLE COCOA FARMING: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IN ENHANCING YIELDS IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Abstract

Cocoa farming remains central to Nigeria’s agricultural exports, yet yields in Southwest Nigeria have declined due to climate variability, soil degradation, and unsustainable practices. This study explores the role of climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices in enhancing cocoa yields and promoting sustainability. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining survey data from 400 cocoa farmers across Ondo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, and Oyo States with 20 key informant interviews. A structured questionnaire measured adoption of CSA practices, yield outcomes, and adoption constraints, while interviews provided contextual insights. Descriptive statistics, a CSA adoption index, regression, and ANOVA were applied to the quantitative data, and thematic content analysis was used for qualitative narratives. Results showed high adoption of agroforestry (72%) and organic amendments (65%), but low adoption of irrigation (27%) and soil/water conservation (43%). Regression analysis confirmed that CSA adoption significantly improved yields (β = 0.391, p < 0.001), alongside farm size, credit access, and education, while tree age reduced productivity. ANOVA revealed significant yield differences across states (p = 0.003), with Ondo outperforming Ekiti and Ogun. Major constraints included input costs, limited credit, and weak extension support. Scaling CSA adoption requires policy support through subsidies, affordable credit schemes, stronger extension services, and targeted state-level interventions to address regional disparities.