Anthony O Ukpene 1*, Collins O. Molua 2, Thelma E. Konyeme 1, Belonwu E. Eunice 3 and John C. Morka 2
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria; 2Department of Physics, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria; 3Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria
*Corresponding author: anthony.ukpene@unidel.edu.ng
Among smallholder farmers in Southern Nigeria, climatic variability is a major threat to the stability of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) production, affecting yield, soil health, and livelihoods. This paper assessed the performance of identified climate-smart agronomic practices in increasing cowpea productivity, improving climate stress resilience, enhancing soil fertility, and improving socioeconomic performance. Four treatments, namely, conventional practice (control), mulching with an improved cowpea variety, intercropping with maize, and conservation tillage using compost, were replicated three times using a randomized complete block design. The grain yield was compared across three seasons, namely early season (normal rainfall), midseason (erratic rainfall), and late season (dry spell). The soil samples were tested to determine organic carbon, total nitrogen, moisture retention, and bulk density. Socioeconomic performance was measured by production costs, net income, and farmers' willingness to adopt. ANOVA at the 5% significance level was used to analyse the data, while LSD was used for mean separation. Findings revealed that cowpea performed well under climate-smart practices, with conservation tillage and compost, recording the highest average (1.25 t/ha), better soil health parameters, and a yield stability index (0.75). Mulching (72%) and intercropping (69%) were adopted willingly. The results indicate the potential to rely on climate-smart agronomic strategies to sustainably improve cowpea productivity, soil health, and farmers' livelihoods. Some of the recommendations include promoting these practices through training, access to inputs, extension, and climate information services.