The Role of Agroforestry in Climate-resilient Land and Soil Management: A Case Study of Nigeria’s Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project

Agroforestry is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for sustainable land and soil management, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change. This abstract explores the Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project in Oyo State, Nigeria, where the integration of tree crops such as mango, cashew, and teak with traditional staple crops like maize and yam has been employed as a climate-resilient strategy. This initiative addresses key issues such as soil erosion, declining soil fertility, and unpredictable rainfall patterns, which are exacerbated by climate change. The practice of agroforestry in Ogbomoso helps stabilize the soil through tree root systems that reduce erosion caused by wind and water. Additionally, leguminous trees enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen, thus enhancing soil fertility naturally and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. The inclusion of trees in farming systems also improves water retention, a critical factor in semi-arid regions, ensuring that crops can thrive even during dry periods. By promoting biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and providing additional sources of income from tree crops, the Ogbomoso Agroforestry Project not only improves the land’s productivity but also contributes to environmental sustainability and economic diversification. However, despite these benefits, there are challenges, including limited access to technical knowledge, resources, and the long maturation period of tree crops. Addressing these challenges requires government support and policies promoting agroforestry, as well as local and international collaboration. By integrating trees with agriculture, the project provides a holistic solution that enhances soil health, increases agricultural productivity, and fosters ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change.