Analysis of Climate Adaptation Strategies Adopted by Smallholder Sorghum Farmers in Borno State, North East Nigeria

Climate adaptation in rain-dependent smallholder farming systems requires a combination of autonomous coping strategies and institutional support. In Borno State, where smallholder sorghum production is fundamental to food security and where climate variability has intensified alongside conflict, understanding the adaptive strategies deployed by farmers is critical for policy and extension design. This study analysed climate adaptation strategies adopted by smallholder sorghum farmers in Borno State. Field surveys were conducted with 62 farmers from four local government areas during a period of relative stability in selected communities. Data covered perceived climate changes, adaptation strategies employed, constraints to adaptation, and sorghum production outcomes. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and adaptation strategy scoring were applied. Results revealed that crop timing adjustment, use of early-maturing sorghum varieties, rainwater harvesting, and crop rotation were the most widely adopted strategies. However, access to improved drought-tolerant varieties was limited to only 38 percent of farmers, reflecting seed system weaknesses. Climate-related information services were rarely accessed, with most farmers relying on indigenous knowledge for planting decisions. The study recommends scaling seed system reforms to improve drought-tolerant sorghum variety access and establishing community climate advisory services in Borno State. Extension management should integrate climate literacy into standard farmer advisory curricula. Keywords: climate adaptation, sorghum, Borno State, drought tolerance, smallholder farmers.