By OLUSEGUN HOSEA

African governments have been urged to adopt and sustain climate-smart policies capable of strengthening food security and mitigating the devastating effects of climate change across the continent.

The call was made by Prof. Edwin Julius Jeblar Momoh while delivering the 3rd Distinguished Public Lecture at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology on Wednesday.

According to the information obtained from the Directorate of Information, Protocol and Public Relations, of the University, the event attracted scholars from Nigeria and Sierra Leone, policymakers, traditional rulers from four coastal local government areas of Ondo State, community leaders, clerics, agricultural practitioners, security officials, students and members of the public to deliberate on climate change and food security in Africa.

Speaking on the theme, “Climate Change and Food Security in Africa: Impact on Agriculture, Access and Adaptation,” Prof. Momoh identified human activities such as fossil fuel burning, deforestation, industrial emissions and unsustainable farming practices as major drivers of climate change.

He described climate change as one of the greatest global challenges of the 21st century, warning that it poses a serious threat to agricultural production and food systems worldwide.

According to the renowned crop scientist, Africa contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions but remains among the regions most vulnerable to climate-related disasters.

The Sierra Leonean education commissioner noted that the continent’s agricultural sector, which sustains millions of livelihoods and national economies, is already experiencing the effects of rising temperatures, irregular rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, flooding, erosion and advancing desertification.

Prof. Momoh, however, said the climate crisis presents opportunities for innovation, energy diversification and stronger regional cooperation among African nations.

He advocated the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture, the Water-Energy-Food nexus approach, development of climate-resilient crop varieties, ecosystem observation networks and increased investment in research and artificial intelligence-driven technologies.

He further stressed the need for governments to make sustained investments in institutions, human capacity and ecological systems while promoting gender equity, social protection and improved market access to build resilient food systems.

Chairman of the occasion and Pro-Chancellor of University of Fortune, Prof. (Oba) Sunday Amuseghan, described the lecture as timely and relevant, expressing optimism that it would stimulate practical solutions to climate challenges facing the continent.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of OAUSTECH, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, called for intensified tree-planting campaigns by governments, organisations and individuals.

He noted that trees help absorb carbon emissions responsible for global warming while releasing oxygen essential for human health and environmental sustainability.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between OAUSTECH and Earnest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology, aimed at strengthening academic collaboration between the two institutions.

The host university also honoured Prof. Momoh with a golden plaque, scroll and souvenirs in recognition of his contributions as the guest lecturer, while other dignitaries received commemorative gifts for their roles in fostering the partnership.