Abstract

The Niger Delta Region of Nigeria is grappling with complex problems characterized by the interplay of climate change impacts, governance deficits and conflict dynamics. Addressing these challenges requires integrated approaches that prioritize environmental sustainability, good governance practices and inclusive peacebuilding strategies tailored to the needs of local communities. The Niger Delta is highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, including sea-level rise, increased temperatures, and more frequent extreme weather events. These environmental changes threaten the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on the region's natural resources for their sustenance, exacerbating poverty and food insecurity. Unfortunately, climate change governance in the Niger Delta has long been plagued by issues of corruption, weak institutions and a lack of accountability. This governance deficit has led to ineffective management of natural resources, including oil extraction, resulting in environmental degradation and social injustices. Furthermore, inadequate response to climate change heightens these governance challenges, hindering the implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies. The linkage of environmental degradation, governance failures and climate change impact has fueled conflict and instability in the Niger Delta. Despite being the epicenter of Nigeria's oil wealth, many communities in the Niger Delta remain marginalized and excluded from decision-making processes. The failure to adequately involve local populations in governance and peacebuilding initiatives perpetuates grievances and provokes social tensions, hindering efforts to address the root causes of conflict. Existing responses to the challenges facing the Niger Delta often operate in silos, with limited coordination between climate change adaptation, governance reform and peacebuilding efforts. This fragmented approach hampers the effectiveness of interventions and overlooks the interconnected nature of the region's problems. While existing research addresses aspects of these issues, there is a significant gap in scholarly work that integrates all three concepts in the specific context of the Niger Delta. This has led to examine climate change governance and post-conflict peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, Nigeria.

UN SDGs

Climate Action