Impacts of Climate Change on Food Security and Sustainable Water Resources in Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluates the impacts of climate change on food security and sustainable water resources in Nigeria. Stratified samples were taken from North Central States of Benue and Plateau, and South-South Cross River State and Akwa-Ibom. These four states are among the thirty six states in Nigeria that have been badly hit by climate change. This study used soft and hardware computer applications including German 12 handheld GPS, and Integrated Land and Water Information System (ILWIS), for data collection. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected for the evaluation. The GIS information software package was used to manipulate and perform feature identification, recognition, classification, calculation, and ground-trotting. A structured questionnaire was also used to collect data on some livelihood activities, the influence of livelihoods activities on water resources, food security, and climate change impacts. Data analysis, found that the forest and water bodies are shrunken. Industrial activities such as oil exploration and exploitation, mining, by Multinational Corporations, illegal mining, grazing, unsustainable farming practices, fishing and hunting for bush meats, bush fire, timber exploitation and deforestation have contributed to climate change. The study recommends climate action and climate diplomacy, building local capacity for resilience, engaging the private sector, partnerships and international assistance.