Drivers of Crop Diversification: Evidence from Smallholder Farmers in Delta State Nigeria

Smallholder farmers in southern Nigeria have relied on the cultivation of cassava, yam, maize and plantain for their livelihood generations. However, with rising climate variability soil degradation, many are adopting crop diversification as a viable alternative to improve productivity farmland by growing multiple crops. Therefore, this study was conducted examine factors that influence diversification, intensity among small-scale Delta State. Data were obtained from random sample 236 farmers. Crop index (CDI) used measure diversity, while descriptive statistics, Heckman two-step model t-test analyse data. The results showed 62.3% female; farmers' average age 51 years, farm size ranged between 0.08 2.2 ha, mean 0.84 ha. Significant differences existed farming experience (p < 0.05), income 0.01) diversifiers non-diversifiers. indicated age, size, credit access, extension contact had significant positive effects decision; attitude risk exerted smallholder Arising findings, there is an urgent need government chart new policy direction revamp ailing agricultural delivery system, farmer-targeted micro-credit institutions reforms land rights enhance timely access promote enterprise households.