Climatic and Anthropogenic Influences on Soil Salinity and Groundwater Quality in Semi-Arid Irrigated Agriculture: A Review with Insights from Oba Dam, Nigeria

Abstract

Soil salinity and groundwater quality degradation increasingly threaten the sustainability of irrigated agriculture in semi-arid regions worldwide, posing significant socio-economic consequences for smallholder farmers and rural communities. This review synthesises current literature on the climatic and anthropogenic drivers of soil and groundwater salinisation, highlighting assessment techniques, management practices, and the socio-economic dimensions of salinity risks. Recent advances in remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) are critically evaluated, and the utility of irrigation water quality indices is examined. The review contextualises these themes with primary and secondary data from Oba Dam, southwestern Nigeria. Findings demonstrate spatially and temporally variable salinity trends, compounded by climate variability, sub-optimal irrigation management, land use change, and policy limitations. The authors propose integrated, participatory approaches grounded in climate adaptation, technological innovation, and policy reform, aiming to ensure agricultural resilience and socio-economic sustainability. Optimized irrigation is recommended for integration into farming practices as it maintains healthy soil by preventing the accumulation of excess salt. This work contributes original synthesis and context-specific recommendations for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners involved in salinity management in semi-arid, irrigated environments.