Aligning Climate Action and Biodiversity Conservation in Nigeria: Implications of the Paris Agreement

Abstract

The Nigeria’s ecological diversity ranges from savannas, montane forests to wetlands and mangrove coasts, supporting a wealth of biodiversity, environmental stability and human well-being. However, the nation faces threats from climate change, such as: deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and unsustainable land use. This study examines the implications of the Paris Agreement for biodiversity conservation in Nigeria from the view of the Social-Ecological Systems (SES) Framework, supported by Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) and resilience thinking, using interdisciplinary data and institutional analysis for both governments, corporate and non-governmental. The research identifies and characterises Nigeria’s major ecosystems and resource units, such as forests, wetlands, and non-timber forest products, along with the governmental systems that regulate them. The findings further highlight the interdependencies between biodiversity, ecosystem services, and socioeconomic resilience. Also analyses interactions among key stakeholders, including governmental bodies, private sectors, international organisations, and civil societies. The study revealed the multifaceted governance landscape influencing conservation outcomes and also emphasised the urgency of aligning Nigeria’s biodiversity strategy with its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. The integrated adaptation strategies, such as EbA, help identify for enhancing the resilience in vulnerable ecosystems, particularly in biodiversity hotspots. The research concludes that successful biodiversity conservation in Nigeria needs an inclusive governance, effective implementation of climate policies, and the recognition of ecosystems as national sustainability and global climate goals.