Community Participatory Environmental Communication Experiences on Nature-Based Climate Solutions in Maiduguri Metropolis

Effective environmental communication is critical for advancing sustainable climate solutions, especially in conflict-affected regions where trust, participation, and resilience are fragile. In Maiduguri, Northeast Nigeria, the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency, violent conflicts have not only devastated ecosystems of affected communities but also disrupted traditional knowledge-sharing systems that are essential for sustaining nature-based climate solutions (NbS). This study examines Community Participatory Environmental Communication Experiences on Nature-Based Climate Solutions in Maiduguri Metropolis. Guided by participatory communication theory, the research employs a qualitative approach through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) across Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and Jere LGAs. The findings suggest a significant lack of awareness and ineffective communication strategies, hampering widespread participation, adoption, and the success of NbS in the communities. The impact of violent conflict caused by Boko Haram further disrupted the effective implementation of NbS and shifted community priority towards subsistence gardening. Furthermore, illiteracy, limited access to NbS media and community-led campaigns, perceived infrequent government engagement, and water scarcity negatively impact the broader adoption and community participation in NbS initiatives. Hence, the study recommends implementing all-inclusive, locally targeted awareness campaigns; encouraging meaningful community engagement and a rewards system; and incorporating NbS into livelihood priorities.