Appraisal of Marine Governance and Sustainability Approaches in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the marine governance and sustainability approaches in Nigeria, focusing on the current challenges and proposing actionable recommendations for improvement. Nigeria's coastal areas, rich in biodiversity and socio-economic potential, are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities such as oil exploration, illegal fishing, coastal development, and pollution. These challenges are exacerbated by inadequate governance frameworks, poor enforcement mechanisms, and insufficient stakeholder engagement. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Nigeria's marine governance policies by comparing them with best practices from Belize, a country renowned for its sustainable marine management. Through a comprehensive analysis of survey data from mid-career professionals and experts in marine governance, the study identifies key deficiencies in Nigeria's approach, including insufficient coordination among government agencies, inadequate financial resources, poor enforcement of regulations, and limited public awareness. Key findings reveal a consensus among respondents on the critical need for enhanced institutional capacity, increased financial investment, and stronger enforcement mechanisms. The study underscores the importance of engaging local communities and stakeholders in the decision-making process to foster a more inclusive and effective governance framework. Recommendations include the establishment of a central coordinating body within the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to streamline efforts among various agencies, increased funding for marine governance initiatives, and nationwide public awareness campaigns. Additionally, anti-corruption measures and transparency initiatives are essential to combat political instability and ensure the long-term sustainability of Nigeria's marine ecosystems.