EFFECTIVENESS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES IN DRYLAND AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS OF NORTHERN NIGERIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Climate change threatens the sustainability of dryland agriculture in Northern Nigeria through rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, recurrent droughts, and land degradation, with severe consequences for productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods. Although smallholder adaptation strategies are well documented, evidence on their effectiveness remains fragmented. This study uses a systematic narrative review approach to synthesize recent empirical evidence on the effectiveness of climate change adaptation strategies in dryland agricultural systems of Northern Nigeria. A systematic search of scientific databases identified peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2026, which were then synthesized through qualitative thematic analysis. The review finds that crop diversification, drought-tolerant varieties, supplementary irrigation, agroforestry, soil conservation, climate-smart agriculture, and livelihood diversification are the predominant strategies employed across the region, generally improving crop productivity, household income, food security, and resilience when supported by favorable institutional and socioeconomic conditions. However, outcomes vary considerably due to differences in agroecology, access to finance and extension services, and methodological approaches. The review identifies critical gaps, including limited longitudinal evaluation, inconsistent effectiveness indicators, weak attention to maladaptation, and insufficient evidence from highly vulnerable communities. By synthesizing evidence and explaining variation in outcomes, this review provides a foundation for strengthening adaptation policy, guiding future research, and promoting climate-resilient agricultural development in Northern Nigeria.