From Degradation to Sustainability: Re-examining Nigeria’s Environmental History through an Ecological Lens.

  ABSTRACT : This paper examines the theoretical and practical dimensions of historical ecology in Nigeria, a region characterized by diverse ecosystems and a long history of human-environment interactions. Integrating insights from paleoecology, archaeology, oral traditions, and historical archives, we reconstruct past landscapes and ecological dynamics to understand the long-term impacts of human activities on the Nigerian environment. We explore key theoretical frameworks, such as political ecology and environmental history, to analyze the socio-economic and political drivers of environmental change. Case studies from various ecological zones— including the Niger Delta, the savanna regions, and the rainforest belt to illustrate the complex interplay between human practices (e.g., agriculture, urbanization, resource extraction) and environmental outcomes (e.g., deforestation, soil erosion, biodiversity loss). The study highlights the role of indigenous ecological knowledge in shaping sustainable resource management practices and mitigating environmental degradation. Furthermore, we address the challenges of applying historical ecological insights to contemporary environmental issues in Nigeria, such as climate change adaptation, land degradation, and biodiversity conservation. By examining the historical roots of current environmental problems, this paper provides a nuanced understanding of the socialecological dynamics that shape Nigeria’s environmental landscape. We argue that integrating historical perspectives into environmental policy and management can foster more effective and equitable strategies for achieving environmental sustainability and resilience in Nigeria. This approach not only informs conservation efforts but also promotes a deeper appreciation of the cultural and ecological heritage of the region.

KEYWORDS: Environment, History, Degradation, Ecology, Nigeria.