Current Trends in Sustainability Education and the Future of Sustainability Education in Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines the current trends in sustainability education
and the future of sustainability education in Nigeria. It contends
that development and environment are intertwined and thus
should be systematically embedded into educational activities to
yield environmentally responsible and accountable policies and
citizens in the quest for sustainable development. The significant
roles of Environmental Education (EE) as a tool for propagating
United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) have been
identified within Nigeria's national guidelines and policy visions.
While there is this recognition, implementing and delivering EE
programs remains significantly affected by various practical
implementation challenges. Despite various studies documenting
the value of EE for the achievement of the SDGs, challenges
related to governance and laws limiting the roll-out of these
programs in Nigeria continue to pose implementation challenges.
Thus, this article seeks to look at the various institutional and legal
challenges arising with the implementation of these programs
within Nigeria and how to practically address them. The main
challenges identified in this study are inadequate funding, capacity
gaps, insufficient facilities, inadequate infrastructure, and the lack
of EE in national strategies and plans. Recommendations for
addressing these challenges are provided, along with conclusions
on the future outlook.