Climate Change Challenges in Nigeria

By Tasiu Mohammed

Climate change has become one of the most pressing challenges confronting Nigeria today. Its effects are visible across the country, from recurring floods that destroy farmlands and homes, to prolonged heat waves and droughts that threaten food security and livelihoods. In recent years, the situation has worsened, demanding urgent and coordinated action from government, communities, and individuals.

Across Nigeria, flooding has become an annual disaster, particularly during the rainy season. The recent floods experienced in Yola South and Yola North Local Government Areas of Adamawa State serve as a painful reminder of how vulnerable communities have become. Several homes, schools, and farmlands were submerged, leaving many families displaced and children unable to attend school. Farmers lost their crops, while roads and public infrastructure were severely damaged.

These floods are largely a result of changing rainfall patterns, poor urban planning, blocked drainage systems, and the effects of deforestation. When trees are cut down and lands are left bare, rainwater flows uncontrollably, leading to erosion and flooding.

Beyond flooding, Nigeria is also experiencing rising temperatures and irregular rainfall. The heat waves across the northern part of the country have become more intense, causing discomfort, health problems, and reduced crop yields. Many farmers in semi-arid regions like the northeast and northwest now face droughts or excessive rainfall, making it difficult to cultivate crops or provide water for livestock.

These changing weather patterns directly threaten food production, increase the cost of living, and worsen poverty levels, especially in rural communities that depend on agriculture.

While the challenges are enormous, there are practical steps that can help Nigeria adapt to and reduce the impacts of climate change.

1. Tree Planting and Forest Conservation:
   Planting trees helps restore ecosystems, reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and prevent soil erosion. Communities should be encouraged to participate in regular tree-planting campaigns.
2. Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
   The excessive burning of fossil fuels, bush burning, and industrial emissions contribute heavily to climate change. Nigeria must adopt stricter environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices in transportation, agriculture, and industry.
3. Investment in Clean Energy: Nigeria is blessed with abundant sunshine and wind, making it ideal for solar and wind energy projects. Expanding clean energy use will reduce dependence on petrol and diesel, lower greenhouse emissions, and create green jobs.
4. Control of Excessive Mining:
   Unregulated mining destroys the environment and pollutes water sources. The government should strengthen oversight and ensure mining activities adhere to environmental standards.
5. Public Education and Local Enlightenment:
   Many communities are unaware of how their daily activities, such as cutting trees, burning bushes, and dumping waste, contribute to climate problems. Continuous public education and school-based environmental clubs can create awareness and promote behavior change.
6. Government Incentives and Policy Support:
   To discourage deforestation and bush burning, the government should introduce incentives such as providing alternative cooking energy (like gas or solar stoves), and supporting farmers who adopt eco-friendly practices. Enforcing policies that promote reforestation and protect wetlands will also help reduce flood risks.
   Climate change is no longer a distant threat, it is already affecting lives, livelihoods, and the future of Nigeria. The recent floods in Yola South and Yola North and other parts of Nigeria are just one example of the growing crisis. However, with commitment from all levels of government, active community participation, and sustainable policies, Nigeria can build resilience against climate change and secure a safer, greener future for generations to come.

Mallam Tasiu Mohammed is the Director Election Management of the All Progressives Congress (APC)