Climate change and adaptation strategies to water resources in some parts of Sudano-Sahellian zone of Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the impact of climate change on water resources in some parts of the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Nigeria. Climatological data of rainfall amount, temperature and evaporation from rivers and lakes in the zone were collected from Nigeria Meteorological Agency(NIMET),Lagos and Nigeria Hydrological Services in Kaduna respectively while data of river discharge and lake levels were also collected from Nigeria Hydrological Services. The Standardized anomaly index was used to test for fluctuations in rainfall. Temperature, runoff and water level in lakes, the trend analysis was used to examine the trends in these variables. Three hundred and sixty copies of structured questionnaires were used to examine the adaptation to water resource including water for domestic use, agricultural use, and water available in rivers. The study revealed that there was an upward trend in rainfall and an increase in river discharge amount between 1990 and 2013 which accounts for flood episodes in the zone. Some of the adaptation options put in place in the zone are; dredging of rivers, improved irrigation scheme, restrictions of development along flood plains among others. The study therefore recommends a review of operational rules on dams and proper initiation of flood control measures.

Key Words: Adaptation, Climate Change, Flood, Hydrologic Cycle, Sudano-Sahelian