TREND OF TEMPERATURE AND RAINFALL VARIABILITY AND LIVELIHOOD IN MAIDUGURI

This study investigated the trend of temperature and rainfall variability and its impact on livelihoods in Maiduguri, a semi-arid region facing significant climate-related challenges. Temperature and rainfall data from 2014 to 2024 were obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to analyze climatic trends. Additionally, data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 150 respondents across five communities, focusing on how climate variability affects agriculture, water resources, and income levels. The findings revealed that average temperatures in Maiduguri increased by approximately 1.5°C over the past two decades, while annual rainfall decreased by 18%, with irregular distribution patterns. These climatic changes significantly affected agricultural productivity, with 67% of respondents reporting reduced crop yields, and 54% identifying water scarcity as a worsening challenge. Furthermore. 72% of households experienced declining income levels due to crop failures and reduced livestock productivity. The study highlighted the vulnerability of livelihoods to climate variability and emphasized the need for adaptive strategies, including government interventions, climate-smart agricultural practices, and community-based resilience initiatives. The results provide a critical foundation for policymakers and stakeholders to design sustainable solutions aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of climate variability in Maiduguri.