Assessment of Indigenous Knowledge in Managing Environmental Challenges: A Case Study of Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

In many parts of the world, the use of indigenous knowledge to curb the problems of environment and natural resources mismanagement has been effectively applied. This study focused on assessing the efficiency of Indigenous Knowledge in managing the environment and natural resources in Ringim Local Government Area (LGA) of Jigawa State, Nigeria. The study was qualitative consisted of focus group discussion and interviews. The eight discussants’ groups defined by ages (25 – 40, 40 – 60, and 60 years old and above) were interviewed on environmental issues and level of indigenous Knowledge. The results revealed that the level of environmental awareness within Ringim community is significantly effective in the management of environment. Also, the efficiency of indigenous knowledge in environmental management was very effective as declared by more than 71% of the respondents. This indicates that the study area utilizes local knowledge in the management and conservation of their immediate resources and environment. More than 72.92% of the residents of these communities have blamed the poor drainage network as the major cause of flooding in the area. Therefore, it can be summed up that, the level of environmental awareness, indigenous knowledge in environmental management is very effective within the study area. It was recommended that government and private organizations should collaborate with communities in solving numerous environmental challenges through the application of indigenous knowledge and environmental awareness.