ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: A DRIVING TOOL FOR ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIA

Abstract

In the 21st century, as Nigeria grapples with the challenges of rapid urbanization, industrialization, and climate change, the importanceof environmental education emerges as a crucial driving force for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper explores the pivotal role of environmental education in the Nigerian context, emphasizing its potential to address environmental degradation, promote ecological awareness, and contribute to the fulfillment of the SDGs. Nigeria, with its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, faces complex environmental issues that directly impact the well-being of its citizens and the nation's socio-economic development. The integration of environmental education into the national curriculum serves as a proactive strategy to empower the population with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to comprehend, address, and mitigate these environmental challenges. This paper reviews the existing literature on environmental education in Nigeria, highlighting successful initiatives, challenges, and the evolving role of technology in disseminating environmental knowledge. It underscores the importance of fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among citizens to promote sustainable practices and contribute to the achievement of SDGs, particularly those related to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, climate action, life on land, and life below water. Moreover, the abstract delves into the policy implications and recommendations for enhancing the integration of environmental education across all levels of the Nigerian education system. It advocates for collaborative efforts between government bodies, educational institutions, NGOs, and the private sector to develop comprehensive and inclusive environmental education programs that empower individuals to become agents of positive change. Ultimately, this abstract contends that environmental education serves as a catalyst for sustainable development in 21st century Nigeria, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious citizens capable of steering the nation towards a future characterized by resilience, resource efficiency, and ecological equilibrium.