Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between bushfire frequency, carbon emissions, property damage, and economic growth in Nigeria from 2010 to 2023. Using a quantitative approach, the study employs descriptive statistics and regression analysis to explore how these variables interact and relate to GDP in Nigeria. The findings reveal a statistically significant and positive relationship between bushfire incidents and GDP, suggesting that recovery and reconstruction activities contribute to short-term economic gains. However, carbon emissions and property damage showed no significant relationship with GDP, indicating that their impacts may be indirect or long-term. The model’s R-squared value of 32.8% highlights the need to include additional factors, such as sector-specific impacts and government expenditure, to better understand the economic consequences of bushfires. This study contributes to the existing literature by contextualizing the findings within Nigeria’s unique socio-economic environment, where rural areas bear the brunt of bushfires, minimizing their apparent impact on national GDP. The study concludes that while bushfires may temporarily boost economic growth, their long-term environmental and economic consequences warrant urgent policy attention. Recommendations include improving data collection, enhancing climate adaptation strategies, and prioritizing investments in resilience to mitigate the adverse effects of bushfires on sustainable development.