An Assessment of Land Management Practices for Sustainable Irrigation Farming in Numan Local Government Area, Adamawa State

Abstract

Irrigated agriculture is a critical strategy for enhancing food security in Nigeria, particularly in semi-arid regions where rainfall is unreliable. However, the sustainability of irrigation farming depends on the interaction between land management practices, soil–water chemistry, and crop productivity. This study assessed the sustainability of irrigation farming in Numan Local Government Area, Adamawa State, by examining farmers’ land management practices, the chemical properties of soil and water, and their relationship with crop yields. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining field surveys, laboratory analyses, and statistical techniques. Data were collected through 384 questionnaires administered to farmers, alongside 30 soil samples and 30 water samples, obtained across six wards. Laboratory tests assessed soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and exchangeable bases, while water samples were analysed for salinity, turbidity, and nutrient content. Results showed that 57% of farmers were small-scale producers cultivating 1-2 hectares, with 93% relying on flood irrigation, a method noted for inefficiency and soil degradation risks. Adoption of soil and water management practices was high, with mulching (59.9%) and crop rotation (36.5%) being the most common erosion control measures. Correlation analysis revealed that crop yields were positively and significantly associated with essential nutrients such as nitrate, potassium, phosphorus, organic carbon, and effective cation exchange capacity. Conversely, excess sodium, calcium, chloride, iron, zinc, and heavy metals showed strong negative correlation on yield, underscoring the risks of salinity and contamination. The findings suggest that while farmers demonstrate awareness of basic soil conservation practices, gaps remain in the adoption of efficient irrigation technologies and balanced nutrient management. The study concludes that irrigation sustainability in Numan is threatened by reliance on flood irrigation, salinity build-up, and nutrient imbalances. It recommends targeted farmer training, promotion of water-efficient irrigation systems, regular soil and water testing, and integrated land management policies to enhance productivity and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.