Northwest Climate Peace Hub: A Climate Security Approach to Conflict Prevention
In 2024, Women Environmental Programme (WEP) secured funding for the Northwest Climate Peace Hubs: A Climate Security Approach to Conflict Prevention project, funded by UNDP Nigeria and the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Abuja. This initiative aims to address climate and conflict risks while enhancing resilience and sustainable peace at the community level in Northwest Nigeria. The project focuses on:
- Improving access to data for anticipatory action on climate and conflict risks.
- Increasing access to conflict-sensitive, climate-resilient livelihoods and green jobs.
- Strengthening communal natural resource management systems.
WEP, in partnership with Murna Foundation, supported UNDP in implementing the Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) component in Jibia LGA, Katsina State, targeting 500 households.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
To ensure stakeholder buy-in, advocacy visits were conducted to seven key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in Katsina State. Additionally, an inception meeting was held with 50 community leaders, including women and persons with disabilities, to discuss project strategies and implementation.
Beneficiary Selection and Capacity Building
A rapid household mapping exercise was conducted, leading to the selection of 500 project beneficiaries (56% male, 44% female) out of 1,550 potential households. WEP trained 21 extension workers and Climate Security Responders on CSA, who then cascaded the training to the selected farmers. Farmers were also engaged in practical learning through demonstration plots and periodic training sessions.
Agricultural Input Distribution
To support climate-resilient agriculture, WEP distributed essential agricultural inputs to 500 farmers across two distribution centers. Each farmer received a package including fertilizer, cereals, legumes, and a knapsack sprayer. PICS bags were also provided to track harvest outcomes.
Agroforestry Promotion
To combat deforestation and enhance ecosystem resilience, WEP planted and distributed 5,560 multipurpose trees across Jibia LGA. Tree planting efforts also extended to secondary schools hosting displaced farmers, with protective measures implemented to safeguard seedlings.
Climate Information Training
In collaboration with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), WEP conducted a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop for 40 participants, including extension officers, lead farmers, and women’s groups. This training focused on interpreting and applying agrometeorological data for CSA. A subsequent two-day step-down training equipped 500 farmers with skills to adapt to climate variability.
Monitoring and Extension Support
Regular farm visits by Climate Security Responders and extension workers ensured proper utilization of distributed inputs and provided advisory support to farmers. Over 334 farms across 14 communities were monitored to address challenges and enhance agricultural productivity.
Human Success Stories: Farmers Reaping the Benefits
Daha Ibrahim: Thriving Beans Production with Organic Pesticides
Daha Ibrahim, a 33-year-old farmer from Faru Maje, had long struggled with pests and low soil fertility. With support from UNDP and WEP, he received fertilizers, improved seeds, and training in making organic pesticides. “Before this intervention, pests and insufficient fertilizer were major challenges. Now, with neem-based fertilizers and improved seeds, my farm is thriving. My beans have never looked healthier,” Daha shared.
Hassatu Adamu: Breaking Free from Low Yields
For Hassatu Adamu, a 35-year-old farmer from Dan Baba, Riko Jibia LGA, access to fertilizers and pesticides was once a distant dream. “I’ve never been able to afford even one bag of fertilizer. This year, with the support of UNDP and WEP, I learned to make organic fertilizers and received improved millet and bean seeds. My crops are healthy, and I expect my best harvest yet,” Hassatu said with excitement.
Amina Muhammad: Empowering the Community Through Knowledge Sharing
Amina Muhammad, a 30-year-old farmer from Faru Maje, has not only improved her own farm but is also helping her neighbors. “I used fertilizer on my farm and even shared some with my neighbor. We’ve been trained in organic pesticides, and they are effective and affordable. My farm is pest-free, and I am grateful for this support,” she said.
Sani Sabiu: A New Beginning with Improved Seeds and Fertilizer
Sani Sabiu, a 35-year-old farmer from Faru Maje, previously struggled with poor-quality seeds and low yields. Thanks to the project, he now has access to NPK fertilizer and high-yielding cereal and legume seeds. “The improved seeds and neem fertilizer have made a huge difference. My millet is growing stronger than ever. We are thankful for this opportunity,” he said.
Surajo Usaini: Stronger Maize, Better Harvests
Surajo Usaini, a 34-year-old farmer from Dogo Dawa Dababa, Riko Ward, has seen a transformation on his farm. “We used to suffer from pests and insufficient fertilizer. But now, with the NPK fertilizer, improved seeds, and neem-based pesticides, my maize is healthier and stronger. This program has truly changed our lives,” he explained.
Fatima Halilu: Organic Pest Control for Beans Production
Fatima Halilu, a 34-year-old farmer from Fulani Riko, faced challenges with pest-infested beans. However, after being trained in neem pesticide preparation, she now effectively controls pests without harmful chemicals. “My crops are stronger this year, and I expect a better yield. This training has been invaluable,” she said.
Rilwanu Lawal: A Standout Sorghum Farm
Rilwanu Lawal, a 30-year-old farmer from Agangaro Riko, previously battled soil fertility issues and pest attacks. With the support of the project, he now produces compost manure and applies neem-based fertilizers. “My sorghum farm stands out thanks to the NPK fertilizer, improved seeds, and organic practices I’ve learned. This intervention has given me a chance at a better future,” he said.
A Brighter Future for Farmers in Jibia LGA
The success stories of Daha, Hassatu, Amina, Sani, Surajo, Fatima, and Rilwanu highlight the incredible impact of sustainable agricultural practices in Jibia LGA. The UNDP/WEP intervention is not only addressing immediate agricultural challenges but also empowering farmers with the knowledge and resources to sustain their livelihoods. By enhancing food security, increasing productivity, and fostering resilience, this initiative is paving the way for a more prosperous farming community in northwest Nigeria.
With continued investment in climate-smart agriculture, the future looks promising for smallholder farmers in Jibia LGA, proving that sustainable solutions can transform lives and communities.
