IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON POST-HARVEST QUALITY OF CROPS (RICE) WITHIN BAUCHI METROPOLIS (LUSHI AND GALAMBI)

Abstract Climate change has become a significant driver of post-harvest challenges in agriculture, particularly for climate-sensitive crops such as rice. This study investigates the impact of climate change on post-harvest losses of rice in Bauchi Metropolis, focusing on the communities of Lushi and Galambi. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 385 respondents, including rice farmers, processors, and marketers, through structured questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The findings revealed that erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and high humidity are the major climate variables influencing post-harvest rice handling. These climatic stresses resulted in spoilage, pest infestation, discoloration, and mold growth, with many farmers reporting losses ranging between 11% and 50% of harvested rice. Traditional drying and storage methods—such as open-air sun drying and storage in jute or polypropylene bags—were found to be inadequate under current climatic conditions. Although some adaptive practices, such as the use of tarpaulins, raised platforms, and insecticides, are being adopted, they remain insufficient to address the scale of losses. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant relationship between climate variability and post-harvest rice losses in the study area. The study concludes that climate change poses a serious threat to food security, farmer livelihoods, and Nigeria’s rice self-sufficiency drive. It recommends the promotion of climate-resilient post-harvest technologies, farmer training, cooperative storage systems, and supportive policies to mitigate losses and strengthen resilience.