The human dimension of environmental degradation and conservation in north-western Nigeria

Abstract

Lying on the fringes of the Sahara Desert, north-western Nigeria is threatened both by desertification and desert encroachment. To check these threats, several environmental protection strategies have been adopted, but with little success. This is probably because sufficient attention has not been paid to the human aspect of environmental conservation. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate why the human dimension of environmental conservation is crucial and to suggest strategies for mobilising local people for participation in environmental conservation. It is argued that the cause of environmental degradation is largely human and that it is affected by economic, socio-cultural, policy and institutional circumstances of the people. Consequently, for any strategy to achieve the goal of sustainable environmental conservation, it must address these circumstances. Local people's full participation in all stages of environmental conservation strategies or projects is suggested, in order to gain good understanding of their circumstances and 'to ensure sustainability of the strategies. To mobilise the people for participation, organising them into associations or discussion forums, empowering them to manage natural resources and ensuring equitable access to these resources, are suggested. Furthermore, strategies introduced should be cost-effective and should promote the use of indigenous knowledge. It is concluded that, due to the link between poverty and environmental degradation, poverty alleviation should be treated as an integral part of any environmental conservation strategy.


[JEXT Vol.3 2002: 33-41]