Perception of Climate Change and Implication on Livelihood of the People of Lavun South (Doko Area) in Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study is basically aimed at assessing the public perception of climate change among people of Lavun – South Local Government Area. Temperature and rainfall data cover 30 years were used and (1010) one thousand and ten questionnaire (QS) distribute in those village within the study area. Results show that there is an increasing trend in temperature and rainfall with a shift in onset and cessation patterns which has reduced its intensity. The change various climatic variables and their impacts on agricultural production have made the people Lavun – South to be aware of the phenomenon (climate change). Mean annul maximum temperature of Lavun – South was computed for thirty year. It is revealed that temperature (1992 – 2002) has the higher shift from the mean than in between (1982 – 1991 and 2002 – 2011) the mean value shows progressive increase from 33.60C to 34.10C (increase of 0.50C). the maximum annual rainfall computed for fourteen years reveals that rainfall is above the mean value response to climate changes, the inhabitant are less aware of the reality and its consequences. They are still superstitious about climate and the environmental changes. The recommends there should be a comprehensive enlightenment to raise awareness climate change impact and commence aggressively implementation of key adaptation strategies forecasts and early warnings on weather variable by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) or other related agencies should be well communicated and made available to the affected area of Nigeria.