Climatic Change and National Security: Exploring the Conceptual and Empirical Connections in Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Climate change does not fit into the mode of traditional threats to national security, such as war, terrorism, insurgency, espionage, or sabotage. Yet its non-violent and gradual dynamics of manifestation serve only to disguise its impact on livelihoods, social order, peace, and stability. Despite being the most profound of the environmental change problems confronting the world at large, with disproportionate impact on Asia and Africa, there is relatively little research that explores the ramifications of climate change for national security in Nigeria. This paper maps the possible connections between climate change and national security with particular reference to Nigeria. It further examines the key environmental trends that serve as 'stressors' for the transmission dynamics of security threats posed by climate change to the country. It concludes with a range of recommendations on how Nigeria could mitigate the security threats posed by climate change