Modeling the Effects of Temperature and Rainfall Variability on Sweet Potato Yield in Nigeria

Climate variability, particularly changes in rainfall and temperature, plays a crucial role in influencing crop growth, development, and yield in Nigeria. Rising temperatures can intensify evapotranspiration, reduce soil moisture availability, and consequently constrain plant physiological processes and productivity. Given that crops differ in their climatic and environmental requirements, understanding crop–climate relationships is essential for improving agricultural performance. At the same time, food and nutritional insecurity remain major global challenges, necessitating the diversification of existing agricultural systems and the identification of resilient alternative crops. Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) occupies a strategic position in enhancing food security in developing countries due to its high calorific value, superior carbohydrate content, and adaptability to diverse environments. This study examines the influence of rainfall and temperature variability on sweet potato growth and yield in Nigeria, with the aim of providing empirical evidence to support climate-resilient agricultural planning and sustainable food system development.