Can migration support environmental sustainability? Evidence from smallholder farming communities in Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract

Migration has become a means of coping with the effect of climate change in rural farming systems. In order to support the livelihoods of household members left behind, migrants often send tangible and intangible remittances. But the extent to which these forms of remittances contribute to the agricultural sector, especially land use changes and production practices have not been well documented. Hence, this study examined farmers’ experience climate change, their responses and the role of migrants in the adoption and practice of environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The study was carried out in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo state; data on socio-economic characteristics of household members, climate change experience, coping strategies and changes in agricultural practices were collected through a multistage random sampling technique from 287 households (out of which 206 were migrant sending). The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

The initial results indicate that at least 54 percent of households have observed an increase in temperature and the occurrence of drought; while another 65 percent suggested that the amount of rainfall had decreased over time. In response to these changes, about 8 percent of respondents reported household members who moved permanently to other locations. Mixed cropping and crop rotation were the main practices adopted to mitigate the effect of climate variability being experienced. Farmers depend, to some extent, on migrants to get ideas and information on sustainable agricultural practices in order to sustain their livelihoods. The effects of such practices, as observed by the farmer, vary depending on the mix of farm management practices.

The evidence from the study suggests the need to increase information flows that will further enhance sustainable agricultural practices adoption from migrants to households at the area of origin. Policies that will support and strengthen migrant relations with the area of origin could lead to the supply and adoption of environmentally sustainable farming practices.