10th U6+ Consortium of African Universities International Conference

Declining agricultural productivity have intensified livelihood challenges, thereby influencing migration patterns and local security dynamics. This study assesses the impact of climate change on migration and security in Osi. It specifically examines the major climate-related environmental changes experienced in the area, investigates the relationship between climate variability and migration patterns, evaluates the security implications associated with climate-induced migration, and identifies coping and adaptation strategies adopted by residents. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted for the study and descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were employed in data analysis. The findings revealed that climate-related factors such as irregular rainfall, prolonged dry seasons, flooding, declining soil fertility, and reduced agricultural productivity significantly contribute to both temporary and permanent migration among residents, particularly youths and farming households. The study further revealed that migration associated with climate stress has implications for local security, including increased competition over scarce resources, unemployment, rural depopulation, social tensions, and rising vulnerability to poverty and crime. In addition, inadequate infrastructure, weak institutional support, and limited climate adaptation measures were identified as factors exacerbating vulnerability in the study area. The study concludes that climate change represents not only an environmental challenge but also a socio-economic and security concern in Osi-Ekiti. The study recommends strengthening climate adaptation policies, improving rural livelihood opportunities, promoting sustainable environmental management, and enhancing local security and social protection systems to reduce climate-induced migration and vulnerability.