Cloud seeding technology and its potential influence on food security in Nigeria

Abstract

There is no gainsaying that Nigeria lags behind on Cloud Seeding technology despite her exposure to extensive land aridity in her northern region. Cloud seeding technology which could facilitate water augmentation thus leading to food security is grossly missing in Nigeria’s climate change mitigation strategies even as same technology could be engaged as counterterrorism measure on profiled terror cells. This study engaged Social-Technical Systems Theory to explain Cloud seeding technology and its potential influence on food security in Nigeria. An exploratory research design was employed, utilizing secondary data sourced from journal publications, official reports, internet databases, and conference proceedings. The analysis explored literature on cloud seeding, national security, climate change, and food security, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Findings from the study revealed that cloud seeding in Nigeria is impeded by significant challenges, including a lack of awareness among stakeholders, inadequate infrastructure, absence of government policies, limited funding, weak government-private sector collaboration, insufficient technical expertise, and environmental risks. These challenges pose a threat to national security, particularly in addressing water scarcity and enhancing agricultural productivity. Despite these barriers, evidence from literature affirms that cloud seeding offers immense potential in improving food security by reducing drought-related losses, enhancing crop yields, and addressing water stress as a major cause of crop failure. The study concludes that addressing the challenges of cloud seeding is critical for its adoption as a viable strategy for improving food security and climate change resilience in Nigeria. The study recommended that the Federal government and the North East Development Commission must deliberately foster research and innovation in cloud seeding techniques. Additionally, the study recommended institutionalizing cloud seeding within Nigeria’s water resource management policies and promoting government-private sector partnerships, vital for maximizing its benefits.