Climate change has emerged as the greatest challenge facing humanity, as highlighted by Mark Ruffalo’s poignant remark: “Climate change is the greatest threat to our existence in our short history on this planet. Nobody’s going to buy their way out of its effects.” In Nigeria, the effects of climate change are being felt across all corners of the country, with far-reaching consequences for its environment, economy, and population.

Nigeria is blessed with rich biodiversity, vast natural resources, and a diverse climate. However, overpopulation, technological advancements, and the over-exploitation of these natural resources have exacerbated environmental degradation and created a breeding ground for the devastating impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, deforestation, flooding, and desertification now pose serious threats to Nigeria’s ecosystems, livelihoods, and economic development.

Climate Vulnerabilities Across Nigeria

Nigeria’s geographical diversity means that the impacts of climate change are felt differently across the country:

• Coastal areas like Lagos, Bayelsa, Ondo, and Delta face increasing risks from flooding, coastal erosion, and sea-level rise. These environmental challenges threaten communities and infrastructures, leading to displacement and loss of livelihoods.
• Northern Nigeria faces severe desertification, which is intensified by higher temperatures and reduced rainfall. The shrinking Lake Chad and other water bodies are evidence of the growing desert encroachment, leading to the loss of wetlands, diminished surface water, and degraded ecosystems.
• Agricultural activities, which are the backbone of Nigeria’s rural economy, are especially sensitive to climate change. Inconsistent rainfall patterns, droughts, and heatwaves have severely impacted crop yields, fisheries, and food production, increasing the risk of food insecurity.

Socioeconomic Impacts and Climate-Induced Conflicts

The implications of climate change go beyond environmental degradation. Socioeconomic impacts are equally devastating. Climate change intensifies resource conflicts as communities struggle for access to diminishing natural resources like water and fertile land. Conflicts over scarce resources, such as those between farmers and herders, have escalated due to erratic weather patterns and land degradation.

Climate-related displacement, malnutrition, and diseases like cholera and meningitis are further exacerbating existing vulnerabilities, particularly among marginalized groups like women, children, Indigenous Peoples, and ethnic minorities. The impacts on these vulnerable groups create a vicious cycle of poverty, inequality, and social unrest, further hindering the nation’s economic growth.

Agriculture and Fisheries: A Sector Under Threat

Agriculture is the lifeblood of Nigeria’s economy, providing livelihoods for over 70% of the population and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. However, climate change is taking a heavy toll on this vital sector. Unpredictable rainfall patterns, higher temperatures, and extreme weather events have diminished agricultural productivity, reduced arable land, and decreased crop yields. Coastal erosion, flooding, and rising sea levels also threaten fisheries, which are crucial to the livelihoods of many Nigerians.

Institutional Efforts to Combat Climate Change

The Nigerian government has taken steps to address the climate crisis through various agencies, including the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), which plays a key role in enforcing environmental laws and spearheading efforts to combat climate change. Despite these efforts, the pace of adaptation has been slow, and more coordinated efforts are needed across all levels of government and society.

Adaptive Strategies for Climate Resilience

To effectively combat the effects of climate change and build resilience, Nigeria needs to adopt a range of adaptive strategies. These include:

1. Public Awareness and Education: Agencies like the Nigerian Environmental Study and Action Team (NEST) and the Nigerian Climate Change Network (NCCN) should be financed to raise awareness about climate change and educate citizens on practical adaptation strategies.
2. Promotion of Renewable Energy: The government should provide incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Reducing reliance on firewood and charcoal will help mitigate deforestation and reduce carbon emissions.
3. Support for Farmers: Agricultural extension services should be strengthened to provide farmers with updated information on climate-resilient farming techniques, weather patterns, and best practices to cope with changing conditions.
4. Corporate Responsibility and Innovation: Corporations should embrace sustainable practices as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR), including reducing emissions, adopting recycling initiatives, and investing in renewable energy.
5. Climate Insurance: Nigeria should develop climate insurance products to protect farmers and other vulnerable sectors from the impacts of extreme weather events. Public-private partnerships can help insurers cover climate-related risks, offering much-needed financial protection for those affected.
6. Climate Literacy and Knowledge Infrastructure: Empowering individuals and communities with climate knowledge is critical. Strengthening climate change education and training will equip citizens with the tools they need to adapt to changing conditions and implement sustainable practices.

Conclusion

Climate change poses an existential threat to Nigeria, and the time for action is now. While Nigeria’s economy is projected to grow, the impacts of climate change could undermine this progress if left unaddressed. By adopting adaptive strategies, promoting sustainable energy, and improving agricultural practices, Nigeria can build resilience and secure its future in the face of the climate crisis. Collaborative efforts from the government, private sector, and civil society are essential to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.