Oluremi Serrano

As Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu assumes the presidency as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he faces the monumental task of addressing the pressing environmental challenges that loom over the nation and guiding Nigeria towards a future of environmental protection and sustainability. Only then will the “Renewed Hope” mantra resonate with a citizenry that has recently experienced the vulnerabilities imposed by nature and monumental ineptitude at the highest level of governance.

As citizens both at home and abroad, as well as the global audience, attentively listened to the president’s inaugural speech with cautious optimism, one of the many questions on their minds revolved around whether there would be a paradigm shift in government policies and practices concerning the multitude of environmental challenges.

The new administration must urgently evaluate the nation’s performance in environmental protection, taking stock of past achievements and shortcomings. To ensure a sustainable future, focused attention is required in the following areas:

Conservation and Restoration: Strengthen efforts to protect and restore Nigeria’s natural habitats, including forests, rivers, and coastal areas. This entails creating and effectively managing conservation zones, combating deforestation, and addressing the threats posed by urbanization and industrial activities.

Pollution Control and Waste Management: Implement comprehensive measures to control pollution, particularly in water bodies and air quality. Stricter regulations, enforcement mechanisms, and public awareness campaigns can help combat illegal oil refineries, reduce plastic waste, and minimize harmful emissions.

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Develop and implement strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance resilience. This includes promoting renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing adaptation measures in vulnerable regions.

Environmental Education and Awareness: Invest in environmental education programs to raise awareness among the population and foster a culture of environmental stewardship. This involves partnering with media outlets for mass mobilisation, leveraging technology and social media for outreach, and promoting sustainable practices in schools and communities.

Poverty Alleviation Programmes: By tackling poverty and promoting sustainable development, these programmes can contribute to mitigating climate change and fostering environmental sustainability. They can provide alternative livelihood options that reduce reliance on environmentally damaging practices, offer education and awareness on environmental conservation, improve access to clean energy, promote sustainable resource management, and address environmental justice issues. However,

it is crucial to complement poverty alleviation efforts with strong environmental policies, sustainable consumption practices, and international cooperation. By integrating poverty alleviation and environmental protection, Nigeria can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future in the face of climate change.

Nigeria currently grapples with a range of environmental challenges, from floods predominantly occurring in the southern regions to devastating oil spills in the delta. Water pollution resulting from mining activities in Osun State, mismanagement of waste, loss of biodiversity due to deforestation and pollution, and desert encroachment in the North further compound the nation’s environmental woes. Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, necessitating reflection on past efforts and determining the path forward for the next generation of leaders who prioritize environmental protection. By learning from past initiatives and adopting a visionary approach, Nigeria can forge a sustainable future for its ecosystems, wildlife, and citizens.

Over the years, Nigeria has made notable strides in environmental protection, demonstrating a growing awareness of the importance of safeguarding its natural resources. The establishment of national parks and reserves, such as Cross River National Park, Yankari National Park, and Gashaka-Gumti National Park, signifies a commitment to preserve biodiversity and create opportunities for eco-tourism and research. The Nigerian Conservation Foundation has played a crucial role in championing environmental causes and raising awareness about the need for conservation.

However, past efforts have been hindered by various setbacks. The rapid pace of urbanization has led to deforestation and the fragmentation of forests, leaving many species vulnerable to poaching and habitat loss. Oil spills in the Niger Delta have caused significant ecological damage, posing threats to aquatic life and the livelihoods of local communities. Water pollution resulting from industrial activities, illegal mining, and improper waste management has further degraded Nigeria’s water bodies, exacerbating environmental and public health risks.

At present, Nigeria faces a critical crossroad in its environmental journey. The nation’s natural habitats are increasingly under pressure, and the adverse effects of climate change are becoming more evident. Recent flooding incidents in the southern parts of the country have caused widespread devastation, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and disrupting essential services. It is imperative to address these challenges with proactive measures and adaptation strategies to safeguard vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

To navigate these challenges, the next generation of leaders must prioritize climate change mitigation and adaptation. Integrated approaches that encompass sustainable development, pollution control, and ecosystem restoration are imperative. Nigeria should also engage in international collaborations and draw upon global best practices. By harnessing the power of innovation, education, and community engagement, Nigeria can pave the way towards a resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The road ahead may be challenging, but it also presents an opportunity for Nigeria to become a global leader in sustainable development. As the consequences of past neglect become evident, let us remember the wise words of Antonio Guterres: “Every day we fail to act is a day that we step a little closer towards a fate that none of us wants – a fate that will resonate through generations in the damage done to humankind and life on earth. Our fate is in our hands. The world is counting on all of us to rise to the challenge before it’s too late.”

Together, we can build a greener, more resilient Nigeria that safeguards its natural heritage for generations to come. As President Tinubu himself said during his inaugural speech, “…electricity will become more accessible and affordable to businesses and homes alike. Power generation should nearly double, and transmission and distribution networks improved. We will encourage states to develop local sources as well.”

Beyond political rhetoric, the world awaits the awakening of this slumbering giant, hoping to witness Nigeria’s transformation into a leader of sustainable practices rather than a perpetual bystander.

Oluremi Serrano, Legal practitioner and Programme Officer, Local Initiatives for Environmental Sustainability (LIFES), writes from Lagos.