IMPACT OF FLOOD DISASTER ON AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA (2012 - 2022)
Balogun Olarenwaju Musa, Mohammed Bello B., PhD and Shuaibu Umar Abdul, PhD
Volume 11 Issue 1
Abstract
Flood disasters have increasingly become a major concern for agricultural productivity in Kogi State, Nigeria. The recurrent nature of these disasters between 2012 and 2022 has severely impacted farming communities, threatening food security and livelihoods. This study investigates the impact of flood disasters on agricultural productivity in Kogi State during this period, anchored on Baumol's (1977) production theory, which examines the relationship between production inputs and outputs. The research employs a survey design, targeting farming communities across eight local governments in Kogi State, with a total population of 4,170 people (KSBS, 2020). A sample size of 351 respondents was selected using a stratified sampling technique, as determined by the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) method for calculating sample size. This methodology ensured a representative sample, facilitating robust and generalizable findings. The findings reveal a significant correlation between flood occurrences and declines in agricultural productivity. Specifically, floods have caused the destruction of farmlands, loss of crops, and a subsequent reduction in agricultural yields. The study also highlights adaptive strategies employed by farmers, such as crop diversification and the use of early warning systems, though these measures have not fully mitigated the adverse effects. Based on these findings, the study therefore recommended; Develop and upgrade flood management systems, including improved drainage and flood barriers, to mitigate the impact of future floods on farmland and infrastructure. Encourage and support the adoption of flood-resistant crop varieties and farming techniques to reduce crop loss and improve resilience. Provide financial and technical assistance to farmers affected by floods, including subsidies for damaged infrastructure and support for recovery and adaptation strategies. Strengthen food security programs by investing in emergency food supplies and distribution systems to ensure that communities can better cope with food shortages caused by floods. Keywords: Flood Disaster Trends, Agricultural Productivity, Kogi State, Nigeria
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