Abstract

This study investigated the synergistic potential of integrating Indigenous Knowledge (IK) with Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices across two contrasting agro-ecological zones in Southwestern Nigeria, precisely the semi-arid Oyo and the humid Ogun States. It was posited that an integrated IK-CSA approach would outperform singular systems, but that the specific benefits would be shaped by local ecological and socio-economic contexts. Using participatory action research methodology, three farmer groups (IK-only, CSA-only, and Integrated IK-CSA) across 180 farms (90 per state) was established. Data was collected over two cropping seasons (2022-2023) on soil health, yields of maize and cassava, and household economics. Findings indicate that the Integrated system significantly (p<0.05) improved soil organic matter (22-28%) and crop yields (25-45%) in both states compared to control groups. However, the magnitude of benefits and the most impactful specific practices differed. In semi-arid Oyo, IK water harvesting techniques combined with CSA drought-tolerant seeds were paramount. In humid Ogun, IK pest management and CSA soil conservation practices showed the strongest synergy. The study concludes that while the principle of integration is universally beneficial, a successful framework must be context adaptive. The study recommends that national frameworks such as the National Agricultural Technology Adoption Policy (NATAP) must fund community-driven adaptation platforms enabling flexible blending of IK and CSA according to local conditions. Also, the Federal Government should introduce Willingness to Accept (WTA) for the adoption of integrated IK-CSA system of agriculture in order to make their farming system more sustainable.

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