Gender differences in access to risk management tools and their effects on farm productivity in Nigeria

This study investigates gender disparities in access to risk management tools (RMTs) and their implications for farm productivity in Nigeria. Risk management tools are classified into three categories: RMT1, the use of a single tool (early planting, improved seed varieties, or informal risk-sharing mechanisms); RMT2, the combined use of two tools (crop diversification with input adjustment or irrigation); and RMT3, the bundled use of three or more tools, including financial, technological, and informational instruments. Using cross-sectional data from 720 farming households in Northcentral Nigeria and a multinomial endogenous switching regression (MESR) framework, the study examines the determinants of access to RMTs and their productivity effects. The results show that female-headed households are significantly less likely to access RMTs, particularly comprehensive strategies (RMT3). Access to RMTs leads to statistically significant productivity gains: adoption of RMT1 increases the value of crop output by 6.38% (ATT, p < 0.05), while RMT3 yields the largest gains, increasing output by 22.45% (ATT, p < 0.01). In addition, RMT3 adoption reduces output variability by − 41.16%, indicating improved production stability. These effects are consistently smaller for female-headed households, reflecting persistent gender-based constraints in access to risk management resources. The findings demonstrate that closing gender gaps in access to bundled risk management tools can substantially enhance agricultural productivity, reduce vulnerability to shocks, and improve household welfare. The study recommends gender-responsive financial instruments, inclusive extension services, and land tenure reforms to expand women’s access to comprehensive RMT strategies and promote resilient and inclusive agricultural growth in Nigeria.