Impact of Climate Change on Food Security in Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change is one of the most significant global environmental challenges in both developed and developing countries, however its impact on food security is much more felt in developing countries such as Nigeria, especially among the poor and other vulnerable groups. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall pattern, desertification, and extreme weather events have led to declining crop yields and loss of arable land. Nigeria, with its dependence on rain-fed agriculture, is particularly vulnerable to the ripple effects of climate change. About 70% of Nigeria’s population depend on agriculture either directly or indirectly for their livelihood, and climate-induced disruptions thereby threaten livelihoods and economic stability. The aim of this paper is to assess the impact of climate change on food security in Nigeria. The objectives are to examine the nature and trend of climate change in Nigeria, examine the relationship between climate change and food security and identify adaptation and mitigation strategies to enhance resilience and ensure sustainable food security in the study area. Data for the paper were gotten through systematic review of extant literature to identify, evaluate and synthesize relevant research on climate trend and food security with a review to examine the impacts of climate change on food security. The findings indicate that climate change has led to reduced crop yields, increased desertification, frequent flooding, and disruptions in food supply chains. The study concludes that climate change significantly threatens food security in Nigeria, with worsening impacts expected in the future. To mitigate these effects, the paper among others recommend the adoption of climate-smart agriculture, investment in irrigation infrastructure, use of improved seed varieties, and improved storage facilities.