Can Faith be the Key to Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Development in Nigeria?

Abstract

Nigeria confronts a dual challenge: pressing environmental degradation and the urgent need for sustainable development. This research explores the underutilized potential of religious institutions, a powerful force in Nigerian society, to champion environmental responsibility. Utilizing Social Ecology theory, the study examines the current engagement of religious bodies through interviews and a targeted survey of 390 participants. The findings reveal a critical need for collaboration between religious institutions, government, and civil society. Overcoming identified barriers is essential for progress. A significant portion (72%) of respondents highlighted a lack of environmental awareness within their communities, while nearly half (46.5%) cited insufficient government support and funding as roadblocks. This study proposes a novel approach: leveraging the moral authority and extensive community networks of religious institutions. The research underscores that there is need for urgent unified action. The paper argues that by addressing environmental challenges through collaborative efforts, religious institutions, government, and civil society can secure a sustainable future for all Nigerians. This study offers a beacon of hope, suggesting that faith-based solutions can be a powerful force for positive environmental change in Nigeria and even to third world nations that are grappling with this challenging phenomenon.