THE NIGERIAN PERSPECTIVE OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE: A CASE STUDY OF COASTAL AREAS OF LAGOS

Abstract

In recent times, climate change and its attendant impacts have become an interesting subject for many a debate, yet little seems to be understood about it on the local scale more so among the rural populace. The study aimed at evaluating the perception and vulnerability of   Ibeju-Lekki and Eti Osa Local government areas to climate change; to introduce effective climate change  awareness, mitigation, and adaptation techniques. The study was carried out through field surveys, questionnaire administration, Personal interviews, and Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS). The study showed that on average, the sampled coastal communities  recorded climatic changes in their environment, but they have not been able to account for the factors that  initiated these changes. The human dimension to climate change is missing in their perception. This relates to how their activities contribute to climate change. The coastal area is highly susceptible to coastal activities that have been exacerbated by climate change. Therefore, given their perception and high vulnerability, there is an urgent need for climate change awareness in the study area to prepare the communities through enlightenment campaigns and to build their adaptive capacity. This study, therefore, recommends that government should intensify its climate change awareness drive until all and sundry are sufficiently sensitized to   contribute meaningfully in mitigation and adaptation measures. In tackling the challenge of climate change in coastal areas of Lagos State, emphasis should be given better preparedness, adaptation strategies that are low-tech particularly those that are targeted at the most vulnerable members of the society and communication/awareness techniques.