Plant Genetic Resources (PGR) in Nigeria and the Reality of Climate Change - A Review

Abstract

Since the beginning of time, nature has fed us, cured and protected us. Today, the roles have been reversed, we need to feed nature and protect it if we must secure a healthy and prosperous future for generations to come. Worldwide analysis shows that biodiversity is threatened by climate change resulting mostly from anthropogenic causes. In Nigeria, there are serious concerns about the rate of biodiversity loss through outright neglect and many manifestations of the challenges posed by the ongoing climate change. Plant genetic resources are fundamental to the establishment of resilient, sustainable agriculture and food security. They provide the raw materials for many medicines and are the genetic stock from which adaptable crop varieties/strains are developed. Therefore, proper conservation and maintenance of the nation’s biodiversity is very important. This paper discourses climate change in Nigeria in relation to plant genetic resources as a specific issue of interest and threat to agriculture and food security. Adaptation strategies are also herein prescribed.