CHRISTIAN ETHICS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGs):ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSIONS IN THE NIGER DELTA

Abstract

Environmental degradation has emerged as one of the greatest obstacles to sustainable development in the Niger Delta, a region endowed with abundant natural resources yet characterised by severe ecological destruction arising from oil exploration, gas flaring, deforestation, pollution, and poor environmental governance. These environmental issues have negatively affected human health, livelihoods, food security, biodiversity, and socioeconomic development. Against this backdrop, this paper studies the relevance of Christian ethics to the realisation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to environmental sustainability in the Niger Delta. The study adopts a qualitative research design based on documentary analysis of biblical literature, scholarly publications, government reports, and international policy documents. Drawing on the biblical doctrines of creation, stewardship, justice, love of neighbour, accountability, and responsible dominion, the paper argues that Christian ethics provides a compelling moral framework for environmental conservation and sustainable development. It contends that churches and Christian organisations possess considerable potential to influence environmental sensitivity, promote ecological justice, encourage responsible resource management, and advocate policies that protect vulnerable communities affected by environmental degradation. The paper further identifies lasting challenges, including weak environmental enforcement, corporate irresponsibility, corruption, poverty, inadequate ecological education, and the limited involvement of faith communities in environmental campaigns. It concludes that incorporating Christian ethical principles into environmental governance, public policy, community development, and educational programmes can significantly advance progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals in the Niger Delta. The study recommends stronger partnerships among government institutions, churches, oil companies, civil society organisations, and local communities to foster ecological sustainability and human flourishing.