Local Climate Adaptation Strategies in Emerging Nigerian Cities: Addressing Environmental and Climate-Related Disasters

Abstract

Climate change, characterized by gradual and abrupt alterations in weather and climate patterns, has emerged as a significant global concern. The world faces rising temperatures, leading to heatwaves, ice melting, wildfires, and flooding. Torrential rains cause flooding, farmland destruction, erosion, and landslides, impacting food security and increasing global food prices. Severe infrastructure damage, dam collapses, power outages, and energy crises are also reported. In extreme regions, volcanic and magmatic activities have resumed due to unprecedented heat. Nigerian cities, particularly in Anambra State, face unique challenges from climate change. Government efforts include various laws and policies on climate mitigation. However, local actions are hindered by rising populations, a lack of population control policies, and increasing rural-to-urban migration. Notably, 28,800 trees have been planted in ecologically endangered zones within these cities. This research reveals that despite the efforts of the Government, the negative impact of Climate Change remains a concern as climate related disasters remain a challenge within the city – an evidence that the efforts of Government though has helped but have not completely solved the problem as more work needs to be done.