Climate-Smart Agriculture in Action: Insights from the National Horticultural Research Institute on Awareness, Utilization, and Constraints

This study examines the awareness and utilization of climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAP) among scientists and technical staff at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) in Nigeria, emphasizing their critical role in farmer education. Data were collected from 60 respondents through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, yielding 53 analyzable responses. The analysis employed descriptive statistics to evaluate levels of participation and awareness. Key findings indicate that 71.7% of respondents are involved in field research, and 56.6% incorporate CSAP into their planning processes. Despite a high level of awareness regarding various practices, actual utilization remains low, with home gardening identified as the most frequently employed practice (56.6%). Inadequate training (50.9%) emerged as a significant barrier, along with insufficient government support and high implementation costs. The study concludes that, although awareness of CSAP exists, its practical application is insufficient, highlighting the need for in-house sensitization and targeted training initiatives to improve utilization among staff. Recommendations include the organization of workshops and institutional advocacy to enhance the integration of CSAP in horticultural research and education for farmers.