Water availability in a Nigerian sub-catchment of River Niger and its implications for food security

ABSTRACT This study aims at assessing runoff characteristics and water availability between 1955 and 2019 in the Nigerian sub-catchment of River Niger upstream of Baro, central Nigeria, and the implication for food security in the nation. The discharge regime of the sub-catchment is characterized by single peak, which occurs in September. The sub-catchment’s runoff coefficient ranged between 23% and 32% for the period 1955−1970; 9% and 22% for 1971–1990; 45% and 55% for 1994–1999; and 15–33% for 2000–2019. The study observed a decline in river flow and water availability due to climate variability. This indicates impending problems of water crises and food insecurity.