Advancing Climate Resilience Through Integrated Environmental Literacy and Community-Led Governance in the Cross River Estuary, Nigeria

Fishing communities in the Cross River Estuary, Nigeria, face increasing climate change risks that threaten their livelihoods and ecosystem health. This study aimed to assess environmental literacy, community governance, and climate resilience among these communities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving structured surveys (n=250), focus group discussions, key informant interviews, participatory vulnerability assessments, and remote sensing analysis of estuarine habitats. Results showed moderate environmental literacy levels (mean score 65.3 ± 13.1), with significant variability across communities. Governance structures existed in 80% of communities, but active participation averaged 62%, with notably low female inclusion (21%).  Major climate impacts identified in the study included reduced fish catch (76%), altered fish migration patterns (64%), and increased flooding incidents (56%). Common adaptation strategies among affected communities included seasonal fishing adjustments (60%) and livelihood diversification (52%), though their adoption was uneven across regions. Vulnerability and capacity assessments revealed significant spatial disparities, with net adaptive capacity scores ranging from –2.5 to +2.2. Statistical analysis demonstrated strong positive correlations between literacy, participation in governance, and adaptive capacity (r > 0.58, P< 0.01), underscoring the role of social capital in climate resilience. Remote sensing analysis recorded a 12.5% decline in mangrove cover over a ten-year period, contributing to habitat degradation and increased shoreline erosion. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated climate adaptation approaches. The study concludes that enhancing environmental literacy and fostering inclusive governance are critical for building resilience and promoting sustainable fisheries management. A key recommendation is the implementation of targeted literacy programs combined with community-based governance frameworks and ecosystem restoration initiatives to address both ecological and socio-economic vulnerabilities.