Exploring Socio-Cultural Hindrances to Climate Change Mitigation in Badagry Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Climate change continues to pose complex challenges across global, regional, and local scales, with its impacts disproportionately affecting communities in developing countries. In rural and semi-urban settings like Badagry, where tradition, belief systems, and communal structures remain deeply embedded, these socio-cultural factors can either facilitate or hinder mitigation strategies. This study investigated how local beliefs, values, and community norms influence climate change mitigation efforts in Badagry Local Government Area (LGA), Lagos State. A multistage sampling approach from a quantitative research design was adopted, with three purposively selected communities (Ibereko, Apa, and Ilogbo) representing varying socio-cultural and urbanization contexts. A sample size of 165 respondents was determined using the Raosoft calculator and selected through stratified sampling to ensure demographic representation and convenient sampling based on availability and willingness to participate. Data were collected through face-to-face questionnaire administration and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study revealed that while a substantial majority of respondents recognize human-caused climate change and the urgent need for mitigation measures, traditional beliefs, lack of awareness, and economic constraints serve as significant barriers to effective climate action. Political ideology, cultural norms, and socio-economic limitations profoundly impact the perception and response to climate change within these communities. Conclusively, local knowledge, when effectively integrated into climate policies, can enhance community resilience and foster sustainable development at the Badagry LGA in Lagos State. Recommendations include implementing targeted awareness programs, developing inclusive policy-making processes that respect cultural values, and leveraging community leadership to foster climate action.