CLIMATE JUSTICE IN NIGERIA

OLUWATOYIN TEMITOPE ADEOYE; SA'ADATU JAURO HAYATU; ZAINAB ABDU MASHI; ZUWAIRA ISAH

Authors

ADEOYE OLUWATOYIN TEMITOPE Examination Administration Department, National Examinations Council
HAYATU, SA'ADATU JAURO Bio-entrepreneurship and Consultancy Services National Biotechnology Development and Research Agency
ZAINAB ABDU MASHI Agricultural Biotechnology Department, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency
ISAH ZUWAIRA Strategic space application National Space Research and Development Agency

Abstract

Introduction

Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century, and its impacts are particularly severe in developing countries such as Nigeria. The concept of climate justice goes beyond environmental protection—it emphasizes fairness, equity, and the protection of vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by climate-related hazards. In Nigeria, issues such as desertification in the north, flooding in the south, deforestation, and pollution in the Niger Delta highlight the urgent need for inclusive and equitable climate action. Within this context, civil society organizations (CSOs) play a crucial role in advocating for climate justice. These organizations serve as the bridge between government institutions, international agencies, and local communities, ensuring that climate policies are not only environmentally sound but also socially equitable. They engage in policy advocacy, public education, environmental monitoring, and community mobilization, empowering citizens to demand accountability and participate in decision-making processes related to climate governance.

Furthermore, Nigerian civil societies such as the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), and Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet) have been at the forefront of campaigns against environmental degradation, oil pollution, and deforestation. Through awareness creation, legal advocacy, and grassroots mobilization, these organizations are instrumental in shaping national discourse and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

This chapter therefore examines the roles of civil societies and organizations in promoting climate justice in Nigeria, exploring their strategies, challenges, and contributions to sustainable environmental governance. It underscores the importance of strengthening civil society engagement to achieve a just and inclusive transition toward environmental sustainability and social equity. Thus, this chapter is discussed under the following subheadings.