UTILIZATION OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE AND THE ATTAINMENT OF SDGs IN AFRICA: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

ABSTRACT This paper looks at the challenges Nigerian faced in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the contributions which indigenous Knowledge (IK) provides in attaining these goals. The paper observes that despite the challenges faced, Nigeria has the potential to attain the SDGs by 2030 provided there is sustainable effort and involvement by all stakeholders. The paper contends that the indigenous knowledge (IK) is a significant resource which could contribute to the increased efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability of the development process in Nigeria. IK is defined as the basis for community – level decision making in area pertaining to food, security, human and animal health, education, natural resources management and other vital economic and social activities necessary for the attainment of the sustainable development Goals (SDGs). The paper further highlights some of the initiatives and achievements that have been scored in the use of IK to promote development and reduce poverty. The paper further looks at the challenges of implementing IK programmes and concludes by making recommendations on what steps Government, development partners and NGOs should take so as to promote and facilitate access to IK for the attainment of the SDG