Harnessing the Power of Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainable Development in Akwa Ibom: Role of NDDC

By Iniubong Emmanuel Sam

Imagine a future where we could coexist with nature and still have access to the food, energy, and shelter that we require. This is the goal of sustainable development, and it is a goal that may be attained if we tap into the strength of indigenous knowledge.

Indigenous knowledge is the knowledge and skills that indigenous people have acquired over generations of living in harmony with nature. It is a broad and varied body of knowledge that covers a variety of subjects, such as traditional governance, forestry, medicine, and agriculture.

In Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, indigenous knowledge has been passed down from generation to generation. It is embedded in the state’s rich culture and traditions. For example, the Ibibio people of Akwa Ibom State have a deep understanding of the medicinal properties of local plants. They also have traditional farming practices that help to conserve soil fertility and protect the environment.

Indigenous knowledge is essential for sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State. It can help to address a number of challenges, including:

Poverty: Indigenous knowledge can contribute to the development of new employment and revenue-generating opportunities in sustainable forestry, agriculture, and ecotourism.

Unemployment: Indigenous wisdom can aid in providing young people with the education and tools they need to flourish in the green economy.

Environmental degradation: Using indigenous knowledge, the state’s forests, rivers, and coastal habitats can be protected.

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has a vital role to play in harnessing the power of indigenous knowledge for sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State. The NDDC can do this by:

Funding research and documentation of indigenous knowledge; supporting the development and implementation of sustainable development projects that incorporate indigenous knowledge; promoting education and awareness of indigenous knowledge among communities and stakeholders.

Here are some specific examples of how the NDDC can harness the power of indigenous knowledge for sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State;

Climate-resilient agriculture: The NDDC might help fund initiatives that include traditional farming practises including crop rotation, agroforestry, and intercropping. These practises can help farmers become more resilient to climatic shocks like droughts and floods by improving soil fertility, reducing erosion, and increasing crop yields.

Ecotourism: The NDDC could provide financial assistance for the development of ecotourism programmes that promote and celebrate indigenous culture and expertise. These projects can help communities produce cash, create jobs, and promote awareness of the value of indigenous knowledge.

The NDDC could fund the establishment of community-based forest management programs that draw on traditional knowledge.

The NDDC could fund the establishment of indigenous knowledge centers in schools and communities to educate and raise awareness of indigenous knowledge.

By harnessing the power of indigenous knowledge, the NDDC can play a vital role in promoting sustainable development and building a better future for all Akwa Ibomites.

Why should we care?

Indigenous knowledge is a precious resource that can assist us in addressing some of the most critical issues confronting our world. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and food hunger are all global issues that require global solutions. Indigenous knowledge can assist us in developing new solutions to these difficulties that are both sustainable and equitable.

A call to action

I urge the NDDC to take steps to harness the strength of indigenous knowledge for sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State. The NDDC can contribute to a more prosperous and equitable future for all Akwa Ibomites by investing in indigenous knowledge.

Iniubong Emmanuel Sam CFE, a Public Affairs Analyst and final year student, Department of International Law and Diplomacy, Babcock University.