Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and growing insecurity are placing unprecedented strain on Nigeria’s food production systems. In northern states like Sokoto, prolonged droughts and advancing desertification are shrinking arable land by an estimated 350,000 hectares each year, leaving farmers with less fertile soil and reduced water for irrigation.
Farmer–herder clashes in the Middle Belt, particularly in Benue State, have displaced entire farming communities and disrupted agricultural output. A recent study in Benue revealed that even a 1% increase in insecurity leads to a 0.211% drop in crop production and a 0.311% decline in livestock output. These conflicts, often tied to competition over land and water, have also discouraged investment in rural agriculture.
Flooding adds another layer of crisis. In Adamawa State and other northeastern regions, seasonal floods have destroyed thousands of hectares of farmland and wiped out fish farms, forcing many families to abandon their livelihoods. The losses not only worsen food insecurity but also increase poverty levels in already vulnerable communities.
Experts are calling for urgent action to address both climate and security challenges. Proposals include scaling up irrigation infrastructure, expanding climate-resilient seed programs, and implementing conflict resolution mechanisms between farmers and pastoralists. Without these measures, they warn, Nigeria risks deepening its food crisis.
