The North-South Divide in Nigeria

In this post, I will delve into contrasting experiences in Nigeria fare in terms of food and water

Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation with a population of over 218 million (World Bank, 2021). The agricultural sector is estimated to contribute to 34.4% of Nigeria’s GDP from 1970-2010 (Olajide et al., 2012), making it the second largest contributor after oil. However, despite Nigeria’s position as the largest economy in Africa, there are significant disparities in terms of water and food accessibility.

Droughts in Northern Nigeria 

In the northern regions of Nigeria, particularly states in the Sahel Zone, such as Sokoto, Kebbi and Jigawa, conditions are often described as being arid and semi-arid. Prolonged dry seasons due to high temperatures and inconsistent precipitation patterns, contribute to water scarcity (Olagunju, 2015), which affects both surface water availability and groundwater recharge. Traditional farming practices are increasingly unsustainable due to these shifting weather patterns and decreasing soil fertility. Many farmers depend on water pumps for irrigation, which often are located far on river banks and have frequent breakdowns (Dittoh, 1991).

Frequent conflicts and insurgencies, such as the Boko Haram insurgency, has disrupted agricultural activities, displaced communities, and strained access to water sources (Kah, 2017). The insecurity hampers the implementation of effective agricultural practices, exacerbating food shortages and intensifying struggle for water resources.

Socioeconomic factors also play a role, as the northern region generally lags behind the south in terms of development. Limited access to education and healthcare further impedes the resilience of communities, making them more susceptible to the impacts of climate change and conflicts (Yusef, 2008).

Fig.1: Experiences of farmers located in Northern Nigeria

Urbanisation in South Nigeria 

In the southern region, a different set of challenges emerges, shaped by rapid urbanization and changing economic dynamics, despite the abundance of precipitation providing potential for optimal crop production. Urban centres, such as Lagos, experience significant population growth of now way over 7.9 million and urban sprawl since 1990 (Abiodun, 1997). The influx of people into these areas results in increased demand for food, placing pressure on local agricultural systems.

Urbanisation brings about changes in land use, with agricultural land being converted for residential and industrial purposes (Braimoh and Onishi, 2007). This shift contributes to a decline in local food production, necessitating the transportation of food from the rural north to urban areas. The logistical challenges and increased demand lead to higher food prices, impacting the food security of urban populations. Moreover, as urbanization accelerates, traditional agricultural practices decline, and the reliance on imported food has risen to $10 billion. This dependence on external sources makes the southern region more susceptible to global market fluctuations and disruptions in the supply chain, further affecting food security.

Conclusion: While both regions differ in their climatic conditions and the nature of water and food security challenges, both regions share common socioeconomic factors that influence the overall scenario. Population growth, inadequate infrastructure, and economic disparities contribute to the complexities of ensuring water and food security across the country. An integrated and context-specific approach is essential to address the distinct challenges each region faces and to work towards ensuring sustainable water and food security nationwide.