CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES FOR FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA: A FOCUS ON FLOODS AND DROUGHTS
Volume 10, Issue12 (10 - 2024)
Abstract
Climate change presents profound challenges globally, with Nigeria particularly vulnerable to
its multifaceted impacts. This review explores the effects of climate change-induced droughts
and floods on food security in Nigeria, where agriculture is central to economic stability and
livelihoods. It examines how extreme weather events have intensified issues related to food
supply, economic resilience, and well-being, underscoring the critical need for adaptive
strategies. A systematic review of 2,500 publications, following PRISMA criteria, narrowed
the focus to 450 studies, with 104 high-quality studies undergoing in-depth analysis. The
findings reveal a growing threat to Nigeria's food security, as frequent flooding destroys
infrastructure, erodes topsoil, and reduces agricultural productivity, leading to lower food
output and increased costs. Simultaneously, droughts, particularly in the semi-arid north,
drastically reduce crop yields and worsen food insecurity by depleting vital water resources.
These challenges disproportionately affect smallholder farmers and pastoral communities,
waning poverty and hunger. The review highlights the complexity of Nigeria's food
insecurity, shaped by factors such as geography, socioeconomic status, and adaptive capacity.
Despite advancements in adaptation strategies, issues like fragmented policies and inadequate
infrastructure continue to hinder effective responses. However, the review identifies key
opportunities to enhance food security and resilience, including greater stakeholder
engagement, increased investment in climate adaptation, and the use of digital technologies.
By addressing these challenges and leveraging these opportunities, Nigeria can build a more
resilient and sustainable food system capable of withstanding the increasing threats posed by
climate change.
Keywords: Climate Change Impacts, Food Security, Floods and Droughts, Adaptation
Strategies, Nigeria