It has been observed that daily interactions of millions of Nigeria population estimated at 186.5 million by
PRB (2016) with their immediate environment have serious implications on her landscape, environmental
aesthetics and atmospheric well-being. Urban decadence, proliferation of slums, deforestation, congestion
and all forms of pollution are some of the resultant effects of man’s interaction with his environment which is
having adverse effects on Nigerian major cities. Increased industrial activities have engendered more carbon
emission in the country and it is estimated at 26.1 million tons per annum, the fourth highest in Africa (PRB,
2016). This paper examines the state of environmental management in the state capital cities of Nigeria in
the light of five research-proven indicators of environment-friendly cities. The paper applies qualitative
method using the indicators to examine which state capitals are really environment-friendly out of the 37,
including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, in the country. Results show that only five state capitals
out of 37 can be referred to as environment-friendly cities in Nigeria. Recommendations that can spur others
to follow in their footsteps by adopting global best practices that makes a settlement environment-friendly
were given
