Copyright thenationonlineng
Sir: Climate change is no longer a distant environmental threat—it is a present and escalating crisis, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, desertification, and increased flooding are just a few of the manifestations of climate change that are already affecting the country. In recent years, Nigeria has recorded steadily increasing average temperatures. According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the country has warmed by over 1.5°C since the early 20th century. In the northern regions such as Sokoto, Maiduguri, and Kano, daytime temperatures now often exceed 45°C during peak heat seasons. These rising temperatures are not only uncomfortable but also detrimental to health, agriculture, and water availability. Rainfall in Nigeria has become less predictable and more intense in certain periods. Farmers who traditionally relied on consistent rainy seasons for planting are now struggling with either delayed rainfall or unexpected dry spells. In 2024, major agricultural belts in the Middle Belt and Southeast experienced prolonged droughts followed by sudden floods, destroying crops and reducing harvests. This inconsistency threatens food security in a country already facing inflation and economic instability. One of the most visible impacts of climate change in Nigeria is desertification, particularly in the Sahel region that stretches across the far north. Areas such as Yobe, Borno, and Katsina have seen their arable land turn to dust, driving rural populations southward in search of better conditions. This environmental degradation is not only a climate issue—it also feeds into national security, as competition over dwindling resources can fuel communal conflict and displacement. Read Also: NECO opens UK exam centre for Nigerians in diaspora Nigeria’s extensive coastline, especially in states like Lagos, Bayelsa, and Rivers, is increasingly under threat due to rising sea levels. Coastal erosion is accelerating, submerging farmlands, villages, and roads. Lagos faces periodic flash floods and sea encroachment, worsened by unregulated urban development. Without proper coastal defences, millions of Nigerians could be at risk of To survive and thrive in the face of climate change, Nigeria must prioritize adaptation strategies. This includes improving early warning systems, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, and enforcing environmental laws. Reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and better water management are also essential. Importantly, climate action must be integrated into national development plans to ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental sustainability. While Nigeria cannot reverse global warming alone, it can take bold steps to protect its people and environment. The time for action is now. The costs of inaction will only grow, as will the suffering of millions who depend on the land, the rivers, and the climate to survive. •Umar Mohammed Shettima,Borno State University, Maiduguri.
