THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY ON FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF THREE LGAS IN CROSS RIVER STATE

Climate change presents a significant challenge to food production in Nigeria, impacting crop yields, livestock health, and fisheries. Increasing temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and flooding have led to reduced agricultural productivity, food insecurity, and economic instability. Smallholder farmers, who are vital to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, are particularly vulnerable due to their dependence on rain-fed farming and limited access to climate adaptation resources. Additional challenges, such as soil degradation, pest infestations, and diminishing water availability, further intensify the situation. This study adopts a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection. Primary data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to 400 randomly selected households across ten farming communities, while secondary data on climate variables, such as temperature and rainfall, were obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). The study assesses the impact of climate change on food production in Nigeria and explores adaptive strategies, including climate-smart agriculture, improved irrigation systems, and relevant policy interventions. Findings emphasize the need for a multi-sectoral approach, integrating government support, technological innovation, and community participation to ensure sustainable food production and national food security. Recommendations include adopting climate-resilient farming practices, improving water management systems, and enhancing agricultural infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the sector