RENEWABLE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND PROSPECTS

Renewable energy and sustainable agriculture development are pivotal for Nigeria's socioeconomic progress and environmental sustainability. Despite the nation's abundant renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, biomass, and hydro, various challenges impede their optimal utilization. This paper delves into the opportunities, challenges, and prospects associated with renewable energy and sustainable agriculture development in Nigeria. It underscores the necessity for comprehensive policy frameworks, robust regulatory mechanisms, and extensive public awareness campaigns to foster the adoption of renewable energy technologies and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Furthermore, the paper examines the critical role of government support, social and cultural factors, and the detrimental impact of insecurity on sustainable development initiatives. Recommendations for future research emphasize the exploration of the economic implications of clean energy adoption, the evaluation of policy frameworks, waste-to-energy initiatives, rural energy preferences, and the correlation between human capital development and renewable energy uptake. Through concerted efforts and strategic interventions, Nigeria can leverage its renewable energy potential and advance sustainable agriculture practices to realize its developmental goals while preserving its natural resources for future generations.