REPOSITIONING ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION FOR ENHANCIING AGROECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AND FOOD SECURITY IN RURAL NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

This paper examines how environmental education strengthens agroecological practices and food security in rural Nigeria. The country continues to face serious food-security challenges; the World Bank reported that more than 31 million people experienced acute food insecurity in 2024, amid rising prices, conflict and climate-related pressures. Rural communities are particularly vulnerable when unsustainable farming practices degrade soil and natural resources and threaten biodiversity. Environmental education can support agroecology by helping farmers understand and apply practices that sustain production while protecting the environment. Agriculture is also central to rural livelihoods: the Food and Agriculture Organisation estimates that it employed about 40% of Nigeria’s labour force between 2021 and 2024. The paper discusses the prospects and challenges of repositioning environmental education to support agroecological practices and food security. It concludes that progress requires a coordinated approach, including policy reform and support for environmental education and sustainable agriculture.