Sustainable food security in Northeast Nigeria: a system science approach

This study explored the complex challenges of achieving food security in Northeast Nigeria. The study employed a system thinking approach to identify interventions to achieving sustainable food security, biodiversity, and income and employment opportunities. To achieve its objectives, the research gathered primary data from 375 randomly selected households using questionnaires, organized six focus group discussions on the effectiveness of agricultural policies, and conducted stakeholder consultations to comprehend the intricate interactions and feedback within the food system. The data analysis employed both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) was employed to capture the food security of households. The study harnessed system thinking analysis, and causal loop diagrams to explore and unearth potential pathways towards sustainable food security. It also identified effective policies, such as promoting organic farming, mixed cropping, and providing credit and labour subsidies to small-scale farmers, which enhanced food access, biodiversity, income, and environmental benefits. The study identified that Cereal (98.4%), white roots and tubers (96.3%), and oil and fat (91.5%) constituted the most consumed food groups. In contrast, eggs (15.2%), organ meat (23.5%), milk and dairy products (21.9%), and flesh meat (34.1%) were consumed less, highlighting the issue of hidden hunger in the region. Causal loop diagram unveiled agrochemicals, food harvest, monocropping, and mixed cropping as root drivers of the food system, with key outcomes being biodiversity, food security, income, farm labour, and soil quality. Traditional and indigenous knowledge emerged as crucial in preserving biodiversity and a sustainable food system. Recommendations include addressing protein and micronutrient gaps, re-evaluating monocropping and food industrialization policies, supporting mixed cropping through labour subsidies, and promoting forest growth.