Good Governance and Biodiversity Conservation In Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria, the competing need to effectively regulate human activities using good governance becomes imperative as these activities are having overreaching effects on biodiversity. Biodiversity encompasses all species and genes cohabiting in an ecosystem, while good governance connotes effective regulation of human activities under the rule of law. Nigeria, being a nation rich in biodiversity, has become a subject of discussion in recent times. The possibility of realising biodiversity conservation through good governance was, therefore, the focus of this study. In actualising this, the interconnectedness between good governance and biodiversity was appraised and drawn from an adapted conceptual framework. The poor state of governance, as depicted by the outcomes of the components of good governance, also impacted negatively on the nation’s biodiversity conservation efforts as reflected in the ecosystem (planted forests, total forest areas, and wood charcoal production). Some of the challenges are corruption, poverty, illiteracy, and poor enforcement of the laws on the conservation of biodiversity. Measures needed to address this are adhering to the tenets of good governance, law enforcement, provision of social services, and enlightenment campaigns.