Assessing the Impact of Soil Erosion on Rural Livelihoods and Food Security in Support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract

Soil erosion represents a major challenge to agricultural sustainability, rural livelihoods, and food security in many developing regions, particularly in climate-fragile areas of Nigeria. This study assesses the impact of soil erosion on rural livelihoods and food security in Nigeria’s North-East region in the context of supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating household surveys, key informant interviews, and geospatial analysis using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The results indicate widespread soil degradation across agricultural landscapes, leading to declining soil fertility, reduced crop yields, income losses, and increased household food insecurity. Communities lacking effective erosion control measures were found to be more vulnerable to livelihood shocks and food access constraints. The findings highlight soil erosion as a critical driver of rural vulnerability and a significant barrier to achieving SDG targets related to zero hunger, climate action, and sustainable land management. The study underscores the importance of integrated soil conservation strategies, sustainable land management practices, and policy support to enhance agricultural resilience and food security.