TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT. ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………..………………. iii
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study. 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem.. 4
1.3 Objectives of the Study. 6
1.4 Research Questions. 6
1.5 Research Hypothesis. 7
1.6 Significance of the Study. 7
1.7 Scope of the Study. 8
1.8 Limitations of the Study. 8
1.9 Organization of the Study. 8
1.10 Definition of Terms. 9
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.1 Introduction. 12
2.2 Theoretical Review.. 12
2.2.1 Theory of Collective Action for Sustainable Development 12
2.2.2 Theory of Social Capital and Community Resilience. 13
2.2.3 Theory of Economic Empowerment and Green Innovation. 13
2.2.4 Theory of Policy Influence and Advocacy. 13
2.3 Conceptual Review.. 14
2.4 Empirical Review.. 17
2.5 Summary of Literature Review.. 19
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction. 21
3.2 Research Design. 21
3.3 Population of the Study. 21
3.4 Sample Size and Sampling Technique. 22
3.5 Methods of Data Collection. 22
3.6 Instruments for Data Collection. 23
3.7 Validity and Reliability of the Instruments. 23
3.8 Procedure for Data Collection. 24
3.9 Methods of Data Analysis. 24
3.10 Ethical Considerations. 24
3.11 Limitations of the Study. 25
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
4.1 Preamble. 26
4.2 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Respondents. 26
4.3 Analysis of the Respondents’ Views on Research Question one: 31
4.4 Research Hypothesis. 41
4.5 Discussion of Findings. 42
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Summary of Findings. 44
5.2 Conclusion. 45
5.3 Recommendations. 45
REFERENCES. 48
APPENDICES. 52
Appendix I: Research Questionnaire. 52
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
Implementing sustainable development is essential to guaranteeing that future generations enjoy a quality of life that is comparable to our own since it fosters a positive interaction between human activity and the environment (Nnaemeka-Okeke, 2016; International Institute for Sustainable Development, 2019; Dalibi et al. 2017). Sustainable development policies focus on conserving resources for future use and distinguish them from traditional environmental policies that focus primarily on mitigation the negative impacts of environmental degradation (United Nations, 2018).
In 2015, all member states of the United Nations endorsed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which serve as a global initiative aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the environment and ensuring that all people live in peace and harmony by 2030 be able to live in prosperity. These 17 interconnected goals provide a “framework for a fairer and more sustainable future for all.” They address a range of global challenges, including poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, climate change, peace and justice (Emeka-Okoli et al., 2024).
Nigeria, a country rich in natural resources and ecosystem diversity, has significant challenges related to climate change and sustainable practices. The need for creative and effective solutions has never been greater as the effects of climate-related phenomena worsen. Cooperatives have emerged as a key tool for encouraging environmental stewardship and sustainable development among the many techniques developed to address these urgent concerns. These cooperatives, characterized by being member-owned and managed entities, present a distinctive paradigm for addressing climate change by capitalizing on indigenous knowledge, enhancing community involvement, and advocating for sustainable methodologies.
In a definitional context, climate change encompasses enduring alterations in temperature and meteorological patterns. These changes could be natural, driven by changes in solar activity or large-scale volcanic eruptions, but since the 19th century, human activity has primarily caused climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas (Seritan, 2023). The long-term shift in the typical weather patterns that have come to characterize local, regional, and global climates on Earth is another name for climate change. The dangers posed by climate change are nearly as dire as those posed by nuclear weapons (Geriatrics, 2023).
Africa is suffering more from the effects of climate change and most countries have fewer resources to cope with the change. A number of studies have indicated that Nigeria is currently facing environmental challenges due to climate change. Approximately 6% of Nigeria's territory is at risk from severe weather, making the country one of the ten countries most affected by climate change (Okon et al., 2021; World Bank Report, 2024).
There is evidence that cooperatives and the cooperative movement have significant potential to contribute to the formulation and implementation of more effective sustainable development strategies. In Nigeria, cooperatives have historically been crucial in various sectors such as agriculture, finance and community development (Okafor et al., 2024). The agricultural sector in particular is heavily affected by the effects of climate change due to its dependence on weather patterns and natural resources.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) (2023) notes that cooperatives in Nigeria have played a key role in promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, which include sustainable land management and efficient water use (FAO, 2023). By consolidating resources and expertise, these cooperatives enable farmers to adapt to changing climatic conditions and improve their resilience to environmental disturbances. Additionally, cooperatives play an important role in mitigating climate change by promoting renewable energy initiatives. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) (2022) highlights that collaborative models have proven effective in promoting small-scale renewable energy projects, including solar energy systems, which are critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Nigeria (IRENA, 2022). These cooperatives improve access to clean energy technologies, especially in rural regions with little energy infrastructure. By enabling communities to manage and reap the benefits of renewable energy resources, cooperatives help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable energy practices.
Cooperatives are special vehicles in fostering sustainable management and conservation of resources. According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) (2024) about Nigerian cooperatives, Cooperatives are involved in several environmental projects such as afforestation and conservation of the bio-diversity (UNDP, 2024). These initiatives help to preserve wildlife, fight deforestation, and improve environmental quality. Local communities are engaged in these conservation efforts through cooperatives, which foster a sense of accountability and ownership for environmental sustainability.
Against this background, this paper seeks to throw more light on the critical role that cooperative societies play in addressing climate change and other sustainability challenges in Nigeria
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Nigeria faces an escalating array of climate change and sustainability challenges, which have exacerbated vulnerabilities across various sectors, particularly agriculture and energy. The impacts of climate change, including erratic weather patterns, prolonged droughts, and intensified flooding, severely disrupt agricultural productivity and threaten food security. The World Bank (2022) underscores that these environmental stresses not only undermine agricultural yields but also exacerbate poverty among smallholder farmers who rely heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods (World Bank, 2022). Consequently, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions to enhance resilience and sustainability within these affected communities.
Cooperatives, with their community-centered approach and collective resource management, have the potential to offer significant contributions to addressing these challenges. However, despite their promise, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding and strategic deployment of cooperatives in tackling climate-related issues and promoting sustainable practices in Nigeria. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) (2023), while cooperatives have shown success in implementing climate-smart agricultural practices and supporting renewable energy projects, their full potential remains underutilized due to constraints such as limited access to funding, inadequate technical support, and insufficient integration into broader climate strategies (FAO, 2023). This gap highlights the need for a more structured approach to harness the capabilities of cooperatives effectively.Top of Form
Bottom of Form
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine the role of cooperatives in addressing climate change and other sustainability challenges in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- To assess the Current Role and Impact of Cooperatives in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
- To identify the Challenges and Opportunities for Cooperative Development in the Context of Climate Change and Sustainability
- To explore the Potential for Cooperative-Based Solutions to Address Specific Sustainability Challenges in Nigeria
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What specific strategies and initiatives have cooperatives implemented to address climate change-related challenges in Nigeria, such as deforestation, desertification, and flooding?
- What are the primary barriers and constraints that hinder the effectiveness of cooperatives in addressing climate change and sustainability challenges in Nigeria?
- How can cooperatives contribute to the sustainable management of natural resources, such as forests water and biodiversity, in Nigeria?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: Cooperatives do not have a significant impact on addressing climate change and sustainability challenges in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Cooperative Economics sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analyzed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organizations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Nigeria Cooperative Societies Association (NCSA), Abuja. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
1.10 Definition of Terms
1. Cooperatives
Organizations owned and operated by a group of individuals who come together to achieve common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations. In Nigeria, cooperatives often focus on agricultural production, environmental sustainability, and community development.
2. Climate Change Mitigation
Actions taken to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases, aiming to limit the extent of global warming. In the context of cooperatives in Nigeria, this may involve adopting sustainable agricultural practices or promoting energy-efficient technologies.
3. Sustainability Challenges
Issues related to maintaining ecological balance and ensuring long-term resource availability while meeting current needs. These challenges include environmental degradation, resource depletion, and the impacts of climate change, which cooperatives in Nigeria address through various strategies.
4. Agroecology
A holistic approach to farming that integrates ecological principles into agricultural practices to improve productivity while enhancing environmental health. Cooperatives in Nigeria may adopt agroecological methods to reduce reliance on chemical inputs and increase resilience to climate variability.
5. Renewable Energy
Energy derived from natural resources that are replenished on a human timescale, such as solar, wind, or hydropower. Cooperatives in Nigeria may invest in and promote the use of renewable energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development.
6. Community Resilience
The ability of communities to adapt to and recover from environmental, economic, or social disruptions. Cooperatives contribute to community resilience in Nigeria by implementing sustainable practices, providing resources and support, and fostering local capacity-building.
7. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
A set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations to address various global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Cooperatives in Nigeria play a role in achieving these goals through their activities and initiatives focused on sustainability and social impact.
