Abstract
Climate change is one of the global problems, which has dominated the media headlines in recent times. It is a complex global problem because it is intertwined with many other issues such as economic development, poverty reduction, good health, and well-being. Climate change is one of the most important factors affecting the formation of soil with important implications for their development, use, and management perspective with reference to soil structure, stability, topsoil water holding capacity, nutrient availability, and erosion. Scientists have predicted that expected changes in temperature, precipitation, and evaporation as a result of climate change will cause significant change in organic matter turnover and CO2 dynamics thereby significantly impacting soil fertility. Soil fertility is vital in agricultural processes for farmers in Nigeria. Soils are intricately linked to the climate system through the carbon, nitrogen, and hydrologic cycles. Climate change therefore has a profound effect on soil processes and properties. This study identifies that adaptation to global climate change through improved soil quality by adoption of improved management practices is key to maintaining sustainable agricultural production in Nigeria. Through literature review and participant observation, the researchers identified the impacts of climate change on soil fertility in Nigeria. This research paper discussed how management and protection of soil resources can contribute to sustainable development through sustainable agricultural production while maintaining sustenance of soil fertility. A holistic approach to soil management as the engine for increasing productivity by increasing resource use efficiency and making agriculture more ecofriendly is recommended. This research paper further recommends a deeper research and study of soil-climate interactions in a changing world as critical to addressing future food security concerns to ensure sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.
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Anabaraonye, B., Okafor, J.C., Ewa, B.O., Anukwonke, C.C. (2021). The Impacts of Climate Change on Soil Fertility in Nigeria. In: Choudhary, D.K., Mishra, A., Varma, A. (eds) Climate Change and the Microbiome. Soil Biology, vol 63. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-76863-8_31
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