The Impact of Organized Crime on Climate Change in Nigeria: An Exploratory Study

Ibrahim Muhammed Siraju

doi:10.56201/JLGP.vol.10.no4.2025.pg42.53

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The Impact of Organized Crime on Climate Change in Nigeria: An Exploratory Study

Ibrahim Muhammed Siraju

Abstract

s This exploratory study examines the intricate relationship between organized crime and climate change in Nigeria, a nation highly vulnerable to environmental degradation. Organized criminal activities such as illegal logging, oil theft, illegal mining, and wildlife trafficking operate within weak governance structures, exploiting systemic vulnerabilities to sustain their operations. These illicit activities significantly contribute to environmental harm by accelerating deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby exacerbating climate change impacts. The study employs a qualitative research approach, analyzing secondary data from government reports, environmental audits, and international organizations spanning 2013 to 2024. Findings reveal a persistent upward trend in illegal logging, oil spills, and emissions, closely linked to organized criminal enterprises. Theoretical frameworks such as environmental criminology and resource curse theory elucidate how systemic weaknesses, corruption, and socio-economic disparities facilitate these crimes. Empirical evidence underscores that organized crime not only undermines Nigeria’s environmental sustainability but also hampers climate resilience efforts. Addressing these challenges requires integrated strategies encompassing law enforcement, community engagement, and policy reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and disrupting illicit networks. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate the compounded effects of organized crime on Nigeria’s climate stability and sustainable development goals.

Keywords

Organized CrimeClimate ChangeNigeriaEnvironmental DegradationIllegal

References

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The Impact of Organized Crime on Climate Change in Nigeria: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Keywords

References

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