Analysis of the Environment, Climate Change and Habitat Pillar of Development Agenda for Western Nigeria

Abstract

How a government identifies needs during uncertain times, is a reliable measure of its perception and sensitivity to critical governance issues. This study was conducted to determine how much attention and mainstreaming is given to the issues of climate change and disaster risk reduction, especially in these uncertain times of disasters and climate crisis. Using the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, DAWN blueprint as case, the paper sought to know among other research questions, how disaster risk reduction and climate change, DRR/CCA, surfaced in the document and determine if any pattern can be deduced from the DRR/CCA mainstreaming in the document and also know if there are noted lapses from DRR/CCA portrayal in the document when compared with the /DRR/CCA frameworks. This study employed a qualitative methodology using the interpretive approach through digital fieldwork. Among other findings, there is a subtle implication that for effective management of environmental issues and concerns through the DRR/CCA lens, the environment is much more than the physical environment. Its issues and concerns are subject to socio-cultural, economic, political, and other possible variables. Also, there are no strong indications of solid arrangements for risk assessment, disaster readiness, early warning systems, and a sincere preparedness to protect people, infrastructure and other assets from the impacts of disaster. The study recommends that proactive steps be taken to strengthen institutions and shore up arrangements and truly commit to building capacity and ensuring people’s active involvement /participation, in strategies/policy formulations.