Dr. Abba Maigida, author of "People, Nature and Environment: Pathways to Sustainable Development," has urged Nigeria to prioritize environmental sustainability in its development policies and decisions. He made this call at the public presentation of his book in Abuja, emphasizing that economic growth must go hand-in-hand with environmental protection and human welfare. Maigida's experiences in public service have exposed him to the effects of environmental degradation, including erosion, desert encroachment, flooding, and pressure on housing and infrastructure.
Maigida cited specific examples of environmental pressures affecting communities and development in Nigeria, including rural erosion in eastern Nigeria, desert encroachment in the North, flooding in the Middle Belt, and rapid urbanization in Abuja and Lagos. He said these experiences inspired him to examine how Nigeria could pursue economic growth without destroying the natural resources on which livelihoods and future prosperity depend. Maigida's book, which took over seven years to complete, drew on research, field observations, and discussions with various stakeholders.
The author emphasized that environmental sustainability should inform decisions on infrastructure, housing, natural resource management, and community development, rather than being treated as a separate concern. He argued that development should not be measured solely by the number of roads, buildings, and other physical structures provided, but also by the quality of life of citizens, community conditions, and environmental consequences of decisions. Maigida expressed hope that his book would help policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners translate sustainability principles into policies and practical action.
Gen. Alwali Kazir, Chairman of the occasion, noted that environmental protection was also a national security concern, as competition over scarce resources could contribute to displacement, food insecurity, and insecurity. He urged governments to enforce environmental policies, educational institutions to promote environmental literacy, and businesses to adopt sustainable production and responsible investment practices. FCT Head of Service, Nancy Sabanti, said climate change, deforestation, and environmental degradation threatened livelihoods, public health, and future development.
Sabanti, represented by Dr. Andrew Zakari, emphasized that government, the private sector, educational and research institutions, communities, and individuals shared responsibility for environmental protection and sustainable development. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, stressed the importance of environmental sustainability to food security and the preservation of natural resources for future generations. Kyari, represented by Mr. Taiwo Ojelabi, urged Nigerians to prevent environmental degradation and promote sustainable use of natural resources.
Prof. Ishaya Sunday, a reviewer of the book, commended its interdisciplinary approach and noted that the practical value of its proposed sustainability and climate resilience frameworks would depend on empirical application and independent assessment. The book launch provided an opportunity for informed discussions, strengthened commitment to responsible development, and encouraged practical action towards a better future. Various stakeholders, including representatives of the Ghana High Commission and Zenith Bank, delivered goodwill messages.
The book, comprising 21 chapters, examines biodiversity, environmental health, water and food security, waste management, climate adaptation, disaster risk management, and environmental governance. Dr. Maigida's call for environmental sustainability as a national priority resonated with stakeholders, who emphasized the need for collective action to address environmental challenges and ensure a sustainable future for Nigeria. Key stakeholders are expected to implement the recommendations and frameworks proposed in the book to promote sustainable development.
Key points
- Dr. Abba Maigida urges Nigeria to prioritize environmental sustainability in development policies and decisions.
- Environmental degradation poses significant threats to livelihoods, public health, and future development in Nigeria.
- Collective action is necessary to address environmental challenges and ensure a sustainable future for Nigeria.
