Sustainable Social Innovation in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: Innovation is a constant state of affairs, in order for development to continue. However, there is also a need to ensure that innovations are sustainable. To this end, the paper examines the challenges that may hinder the achievement of sustainable social innovation in Nigeria and explores possible solutions and opportunities for development. Design/Methodology/Approach: The author conducted normative research that examined existing research with the aim of providing solutions to a research area that is fraught with challenges and also currently under researched. Research was also conducted for documents and research from previous studies which were subsequently analysed to provide suggested solutions. Findings: At over 200 million inhabitants, Nigeria is beset with many challenges such as insurgency, deforestation, poverty, food-shortages, limited access to healthcare and so on. Fittingly, there have been some social innovations that have tried to address some of the aforementioned issues with varying levels of success. However, so far, such initiatives have not delivered change on a large scale. Although there is evidence that there are SI activities in Nigeria, a recurring theme through the literature is the fact that it is difficult to measure the impact of social innovations and there are very limited attempts at documenting and monitoring the outcomes. Research, practical & social implications: This research indicates the need for collaboration, knowledge sharing, in order to contribute effectively to the development and deployment of Social Innovations in Nigeria. Awareness is also a challenge that was raised and is an opportunity for further development. Originality/Value: It is imperative to ensure that social innovations are sustainable particularly where they are direly needed. The sustainability of such innovations is doubtlessly important to ensure that the aim of establishing such initiatives is not thwarted. There is limited academic coverage of social innovations and their impact in developing countries and it is hoped that the various bodies involved in social innovations in such areas will recognise the need for collaboration, knowledge sharing and development of expertise for sustainable social innovation.