Abstract

Climate change poses significant threats to Nigeria’s environment, economy, and regional relations. Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns exacerbate droughts, floods, and desertification, impacting agriculture and food security. The contraction of Lake Chad fuels resource competition and migration, straining relations with neighbouring countries. Nigeria’s foreign policy now prioritises climate diplomacy, leveraging international agreements like the Paris Agreement to access climate finance and technology. This study examines the impact of climate change on Nigeria’s foreign policy and regional relations, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address its far-reaching implications. The research adopts a qualitative design, analysing secondary data from reputable sources, including government publications, international treaties, and academic databases. Key findings indicate that climate change has become a central theme in Nigeria’s diplomatic discussions, shaping international cooperation and security strategies. The country’s participation in the Paris Agreement serves national interests, attracting climate finance, technology, and capacity-building support. However, gaps remain in domestic awareness and implementation. The study recommends strengthening regional cooperation, integrating climate-resilient agriculture into economic diplomacy and securing international partnerships to mitigate climate impacts. It also emphasises the need for interdisciplinary research approaches, focusing on climate-migration links and localised adaptation strategies to inform effective policies. By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can enhance its resilience to climate impacts and ensure sustainable development.

Keywords: Climate Change, Nigeria Foreign Policy, Regional Relations, Paris Agreement, Climate Diplomacy, Environmental Degradation