This review has meticulously charted the complex trajectory of environmental threats, strategic responses, and policy evolution in Nigeria from 1960 to 2026. Through a systematic synthesis of existing literature, it has highlighted how the nation’s environmental landscape has been profoundly shaped by a dynamic interplay of socio-economic development, escalating degradation, and attempts at policy intervention. The analysis underscored the persistent and diverse nature of environmental challenges, ranging from early issues of deforestation and pollution to contemporary concerns of climate change, resource depletion, and the critical need for sustainable urban development. While significant progress has been made in establishing regulatory frameworks and implementing various strategies, the review also illuminated critical gaps. These often stem from challenges in enforcement, inadequate funding, weak institutional capacity, and limited community participation. Despite the introduction of progressive policies, the efficacy of these measures has frequently been hampered by various factors, including governance issues and a lack of integrated approaches. Ultimately, Nigeria’s environmental journey reflects a continuous struggle to balance economic growth with ecological preservation, emphasizing the ongoing necessity for robust, adaptable policies and effectively implemented strategies to foster true environmental sustainability.SAEREM 2026 OCTOBER BOOK CHAPTER NEW.Chapter Eight