ACCESS4ALL Group

The Philippines case study on mangrove restoration highlights how coastal communities face climate-induced hazards such as flooding, storm surges, and erosion, which are also common in Nigeria. In Nigeria, climate change has intensified coastal flooding, erosion, heatwaves, and irregular rainfall, especially in coastal and riverine areas. States like Lagos, Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom experience frequent flooding due to rising sea levels, heavy rainfall, and the loss of natural buffers such as mangroves. Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of these events, making floods more destructive than in previous decades.

The communities most affected are coastal and riverine populations, particularly fishing and low-income communities. In the Niger Delta, mangrove deforestation caused by oil exploration, urban expansion, and logging has reduced natural protection against flooding, similar to the situation faced by coastal communities in the Philippines before mangrove restoration. These communities suffer loss of homes, livelihoods (especially fishing), and increased health risks due to polluted floodwaters. Like in the Philippine case, environmental degradation combined with climate change worsens their vulnerability.

In terms of responses, Nigeria shows both similarities and differences. While community-led mangrove restoration is more established in the Philippines, Nigeria is beginning to adopt similar approaches. Local communities and NGOs such as the Niger Delta Mangrove Restoration Project, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), and Clean Nigeria Associates engage in mangrove replanting, environmental education, and livelihood support. Government institutions like NEMA, NESREA, and state environmental agencies provide flood relief materials, early warning alerts, and occasional infrastructure projects such as drainage expansion and shoreline protection. However, unlike the Philippines case, where community-based mangrove restoration is central, Nigeria’s response still relies more on emergency relief than long-term ecosystem restoration, highlighting the need for stronger community-driven and nature-based solutions.