By Grace Samuel
In a concerted effort, a consortium of stakeholders has embarked on a mission to confront the pressing challenge of climate change’s impact on agricultural security, which has inevitably led to food insecurity.
The focal point of this endeavor was the symposium with the theme, “Climate Change as a Security Threat – Food Security in Nigeria,” held on October 26, 2023, in Lagos.
Titilayo Oshodi, the Special Assistant on Climate Change and Circular Economy of Lagos State, presented a thought-provoking perspective, emphasizing the urgency for Nigeria’s agricultural model to evolve into one that is resilient to climate dynamics.
She remarked, “We must champion climate-smart agricultural practices, encompassing crop diversification and improved irrigation techniques, aimed at fortifying soil health and bolstering resilience against the ravages of climate change. These practices also hold the promise of enhancing food production while preserving the integrity of our soils through conservation agricultural techniques.”
Titilayo Oshodi went further to stress that Nigeria must actively encourage diversification of income sources and livelihoods beyond agriculture.
This strategic shift is essential for reducing the country’s susceptibility to the disruptive impacts of climate change on food security.
She recommended the promotion of alternative income-generating activities, such as fostering small-scale enterprises and non-farm employment opportunities.
The event also featured a pertinent discussion on “The Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Adaptation Strategies,” where Ken Henshaw emphasized the necessity for governments to fully integrate climate change issues and adaptation strategies into their development plans.
He argued that the risks posed by climate change are not confined to agricultural development and food security alone but encompass the broader spectrum of national development and sustainability.
In Ken Henshaw’s view, seamless coordination and integration across various sectors dealing with climate change, agricultural development, and food security, at national, regional, and local levels, are indispensable prerequisites for cultivating a policy environment that empowers the nation to thrive despite the evolving climate challenges.