Effect of Environmental Governance on Community Engagement in Wamba LGA, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between Environmental Governance initiatives and community engagement in Wamba Local Government Area (LGA), Nasarawa State, Nigeria, focusing on the underexplored role of ESG in rural settings within developing economies like Nigeria. Utilizing a survey research design and primary data collected from 398 respondents, including residents, community leaders, and key stakeholders, the study employed descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, with mean values indicating moderate to high levels of ESG practice (Environmental Sustainability: M = 3.77, SD = 0.049; Social Responsibility: M = 3.47, SD = 0.042; Governance Effectiveness: M = 3.56, SD = 0.040) and community engagement (M = 3.38, SD = 0.038). The regression analysis further revealed that environmental sustainability (β = 0.421, p < 0.01), social responsibility (β = 0.347, p < 0.05), and governance effectiveness (β = 0.389, p < 0.01) significantly and positively influenced community engagement, with an overall model explanatory power of R² = 0.612. These empirical results suggest that ESG initiatives, particularly in environmental management, social inclusion, and transparent governance, substantially enhance community trust and participation in local development. The study concludes that integrating environmental governance frameworks into local administrative systems is essential for promoting sustainable rural development, strengthening social capital, and ensuring long-term community resilience. It recommends institutionalizing ESG practices, investing in targeted environmental and social projects, and reinforcing governance structures to drive sustainable progress and improve engagement across rural communities.