Sustainability and Legal Frameworks in Post-COVID Nigeria: An African Perspective

Nigeria is a significant player in African trade and investment, facing challenges such as environmental degradation and economic instability post-COVID-19. Sustainable development has emerged as a critical area for legal frameworks to address these issues. The study employs a thematic analysis approach, reviewing legislative documents, judicial decisions, and academic literature. It also includes semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including environmental lawyers, policymakers, and civil society organizations. Findings indicate that while there is growing recognition of sustainable development in Nigerian law, significant gaps remain in terms of enforcement mechanisms and public awareness campaigns. The legal landscape in Nigeria offers opportunities for improvement but also challenges. The study highlights the need for more robust implementation strategies and broader stakeholder engagement to bridge these gaps effectively. Recommendations include strengthening existing environmental laws, enhancing judicial capacity for sustainable development cases, and increasing public education on sustainable practices through various media channels.