Urgent Policy Reforms Needed for Climate Resilience in Kwara

Researchers and stakeholders in Kwara State are calling for urgent policy reforms to strengthen climate resilience, food security, and livelihoods among rural dwellers. The discussion, which took place in Kwara State, emphasized the need for evidence-based policy actions to address food shortages and boost socio-economic growth.

Professor Andrew Onwuemel from the Nigeria Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER) presented findings from a study on the palm tree project, revealing increased vulnerability among rural communities due to drought, flooding, and food insecurity. The study identified two main factors contributing to flooding in Kwara State: overflow from the River Niger and the release of excess water from the Kainji and Jebba dams.

Recommendations included better management of dam water releases and improved access to early warning climate information for farmers. The report also suggested establishing a coordinated climate risk governance framework and increasing investment in climate-resilient water infrastructure and agricultural systems.