Abstract
Nigeria’s diverse ecological zones—ranging from mangrove swamps and tropical rainforests to savannas and montane regions—present unique environmental challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. This study explores the strategic role of regional ecological classification in shaping and enhancing environmental policies across Nigeria. By examining the intersection of ecological zoning and policy formulation, the research highlights how spatially differentiated environmental strategies can lead to more targeted, effective, and resilient outcomes. Drawing on geospatial analysis, policy reviews, and case studies from selected ecological zones, the paper demonstrates that region-specific approaches foster better resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation. The findings reveal significant gaps in current policy frameworks, particularly in their alignment with ecological realities, and propose a model for integrating ecological zoning into national and sub-national environmental governance. Ultimately, the study advocates for a paradigm shift from generalized environmental interventions to ecologically contextualized strategies, positioning regional classification as a cornerstone of sustainable environmental planning in Nigeria.
Presenters
Oladayo Ramon IbrahimAssociate Professor, Urban and Regional Planning, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (Formerly Lagos State Polytechnic), Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Ecological zoning, Environmental policy, Sustainability, Nigeria, Regional classification, Ecological zones
