Government Policy Measures and Environmental Sustainability in Nigeria. An Assessment of National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy.

Abstract

Environmental sustainability has become a global priority, prompting successive administrations in both developed and developing countries to prioritize climate preservation and ecosystem protection. Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 are some of the international measures aimed at addressing issues relating to climate change. Nigeria, as a major economy not only in Africa but global had also made efforts towards addressing climate change. At the federal and state levels, several initiatives have been implemented to address climate challenges posed by industrial activities and other human interventions, with the National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy serving in facilitating environmental sustainability and checkmating climate change. There is, however, a doubt about effectiveness of this measure as so many Nigerians felt the negative effect of climate change. This study examined the effectiveness of Nigeria’s climate change policy in addressing environmental challenges. Specifically, it focused on the National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy, initially introduced in 2012 and updated in 2021, aimed at mitigating climate-related issues. To achieve the study objective, the researchers employed a qualitative research design using document analysis as the primary data collection method, with thematic analysis applied to identify achievements and gaps. Findings revealed that while the policy contributed to the creation of climate governance structures, heightened awareness of climate risks, and integration of climate considerations into national planning, its overall impact was constrained by implementation challenges. The study proposed that effective climate governance in Nigeria requires stronger policy execution, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and increased investment in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.