INVESTIGATING THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA (A STUDY OF AGEGE LOCAL GOVERNEMT, LAGOS STATE)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study examined “Investigating the Challenges and Opportunities of Implementing Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria: A Study of Agege Local Government Area, Lagos State.” The study was carried out to assess the level of awareness of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), identify the challenges affecting their implementation, examine available opportunities, and evaluate the role of local government in achieving sustainable development at the grassroots level.
The adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations in 2015 provided a global framework aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, environmental challenges, unemployment, poor healthcare, and other development concerns. Although Nigeria has demonstrated commitment toward achieving these goals through various policies and programmes, implementation remains affected by several factors, particularly at the local government level.
The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consisted of residents, local government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders in Agege Local Government Area, Lagos State. A sample size of 100 respondents was selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, mean scores, and Chi-square (χ²) statistical analysis.
The findings revealed that respondents have a considerable level of awareness of Sustainable Development Goals; however, inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, corruption, limited stakeholder participation, and weak institutional capacity remain major challenges affecting effective implementation. The study also found that opportunities such as public-private partnerships, technological innovation, community involvement, and government support can improve SDG achievement. Furthermore, the findings showed that local government plays an important role in promoting sustainable development through service delivery, environmental management, and community development initiatives.
The study concluded that achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Agege Local Government Area requires stronger institutional commitment, adequate funding, improved governance, increased public awareness, and active participation of stakeholders. The study recommends strengthening local government capacity, promoting partnerships, improving infrastructure, and encouraging community participation to enhance sustainable development outcomes.
Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals, Sustainable Development, Implementation Challenges, Opportunities, Local Government, Agege, Lagos State.
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