The Impact of Corruption on Biodiversity Conservation in Nigeria: A Review of Some Critical Issues

Abstract

The rate of biodiversity loss and environmental degradation in Nigeria has reached an alarming level. While both natural and human factors contribute to this decline, corruption, encompassing theft, bribery, procurement fraud, nepotism, abuse of power, extortion, political patronage, and widespread impunity have significantly worsened the crisis. This study examines the link between corruption and biodiversity conservation using a structured conceptual framework and secondary data from international organizations, national agencies, academic institutions, peer-reviewed journals, books, legal reports, and governance and biodiversity databases. Through content and descriptive analysis, it explores how corruption intensifies biodiversity loss. Key findings indicate weak enforcement of environmental laws, a dysfunctional justice system, poor rule of law, institutional inefficiencies, negative attitudes among enforcement officials, and public disregard for regulations. These issues have led to overexploitation of resources, habitat destruction, deforestation, wildlife poaching, and air and water pollution. The broader consequences include severe biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, rising unemployment, increased poverty, widening income inequality, and higher crime rates. Addressing this crisis demands comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s governance, legal, and institutional systems, along with strict compliance with national and international biodiversity conventions. It also requires eliminating favouritism, discretionary practices, and arbitrary exemptions in natural resource licensing. Empowering local communities, strengthening community-based enforcement, integrating indigenous knowledge, and adopting digital tools for biodiversity monitoring are essential steps toward sustainable conservation.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Compliance, Corruption, Law Enforcement, Nigeria