Spatial Variation in the Level of Awareness and Application of Climate Change Policies and Laws in Enugu State South East, Nigeria

Abstract

This study, spatial variations in the level of awareness and application of climate change laws and policies were assessed in Enugu State. Four local government areas – Enugu municipal, the seat of government; Uzo Uwani; Awgu and Nkanu East local government areas were selected for study. A total of 368 respondents were interviewed using structured questionnaire and oral interactions. The data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results were shown using tables, graphs and charts. Data analysis using the Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient showed an inverse relationship between responses and distances from the local government area (r = -0.640) indicating that awareness decreased with distance from the state Capital at Enugu (Enugu State). In Enugu municipal, 95.42% of the people were found to be aware of climate change. In the same vein, the following percentage of respondents were found to be aware of climate change events – Uzo Uwani 7.24%;  Nkanu East 61%; Awgu 74.94%. Chi-square statistical method was used to test the hypothesis which states that “there is spatial variation in the level of awareness and application of climate change laws in Enugu State” and the hypothesis was accepted. With respect to the application of the laws, it was discovered that executive orders were used to meet with the climate change challenges as the National Assembly had not passed any Climate Change Act. The study concluded that there was the need to embark on a state wide citizenship education program, particularly in the rural local government areas to prepare the citizens for any events of the future