Assessing desertification vulnerability and mitigation strategies in northern Nigeria: A comprehensive approach

• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31167
• Publication Date: 2024-05-20T16:34:02Z
• Authors: Ibrahim I. Yahaya; Yongdong Wang; Zhijie Zhang; Abubakar Y. Inuwa; Yazhou Zhao; Yuan You; Hamisu A. Basiru; Friday Uchenna Oc...; Zhou Na; Chukwuka P. Ogbue; Murad Muhammad; Yeneayehu F. Mihertu; Isah A. Tanko; Waseem Shoukat
• Keywords: Desertification; Vulnerability; Arable land

Desertification constitutes a grave threat to the environmental and socio-economic stability of desertification frontline states in Northern Nigeria. From 2003 2020, this research comprehensively analyzes vulnerability, integrating parameters such as NDVI, LST, TVDI, MSAVI, Albedo. Key factors contributing land degradation are identified, along with spatial patterns trends over two-decade period. The consequences profound, Nigeria's ecosystem experiencing steady decline vegetation cover. Agriculture, vital region's economy, faces increased aridity reduced arable land, jeopardizing food security. Diminishing water resources exacerbates scarcity issues, placing additional strain on communities. These changes lead severe implications, including displacement, loss livelihoods, heightened vulnerability climate-related risks. Urgent, comprehensive, strategic interventions imperative. Policy recommendations underscore revising enforcing use regulations, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, establishing monitoring systems guide decision-making. This contributes practical strategies enhance resilience states, safeguard align development objectives. Findings from study indicate that only tiny percentage (6.7%) area remains unaffected by desertification. Moreover, 13.3% exhibit light 20% demonstrate moderate exposure, 60% fall into (26.7%) compelling (33.3%) categories. statistics gravity area, emphasizing urgent need for effective mitigation measures address its impact comprehensively.