Environmental experts and stakeholders have raised alarm over the severe ecological challenges facing Nigeria due to years of unchecked mineral extraction and the growing impact of climate change. This warning came during the inaugural Nigerian socio-ecological alternative convergence held in Abuja on Thursday, May 20, 2024.
Nnimmo Bassey, Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), highlighted the critical issues in his opening remarks:
“Unregulated mineral extraction, environmental destruction for urbanisation, ineffective policies, and climate change have created grave ecological challenges across Nigeria. Ecosystems are deteriorating, communities are at risk, and the future is increasingly uncertain.”
Key environmental concerns:
- Drought and Desertification:
- Affecting 11 Nigerian states
- Disrupting fishing, farming, and herding livelihoods
- Increasing poverty and forcing rural migration
- Flooding:
- 2022 floods: 1.4 million displaced, 603 deaths, 2,400 injured
- 82,035 houses were destroyed, and 332,327 hectares of land were inundated.
- Economic loss: $9.12 billion (N4.2 trillion)
- Annual occurrence since 2012
- Deforestation:
- The world’s highest deforestation rate is 3.7% annually.
- Forest cover has decreased from 40% in the 1960s to less than 10% today.
- Threatens biodiversity, community livelihoods, and wildlife
Climate Change Impact:
Prof. Chinedu Mwajiba, Chairman of the Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team, emphasised the unpredictability of weather patterns:
“Climate change has led to shifts in rainfall regimes and increased extreme weather events. Farmers are now confused as traditional planting patterns become unreliable.”
Nigeria Socio-Ecological Charter:
The event culminated in the presentation of the Nigerian Socio-Ecological Charter, which outlines:
- Key ecological challenges across the country
- Progressive policy pathways to protect the environment
- A vision for a sustainable and fair society
Bassey concluded, “This Charter represents a powerful call for transforming Nigeria’s socio-ecological landscape. It provides a clear roadmap towards achieving our collective vision for ecological well-being, grounded in fairness, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability.”
The Nigeria Socio-Ecological Alternative Convergence brought together civil society organisations, frontline communities, activists, and academics to develop alternative ecological approaches that respect the environment and protect both the planet and its people.
As Nigeria faces these pressing environmental challenges, the implementation of the Charter’s recommendations will be crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable development across the nation.