ABSTRACT

The issues pertaining to our natural environment have become matters of serious concern in the contemporary world. The future of the earth is in question and our planet runs the risk of total extinction due to the inordinate ambition and greed of humans who violate all ethical norms to the detriment of the common good. The situation is not different in Nigeria where environmental crisis are experienced in both rural and urban areas. Against this backdrop, this work argues that if all human beings that have been charged with the task to care for the earth as our common home should build a new culture of care, responsibility and sensitivity towards the earth, this will reverse the present ecological crisis that threaten the whole world and will help achieve the purpose of creation. The work begins with an introduction and clarifies some important terms. It then exposes the Christian meaning of dominion and domination. It discusses the problem of dominion and its ecological implications. The work proceeds to discussing the role of human beings as stewards of creation and backs it up with Church teachings on ecology. Finally, recommendations are made for the government, the Church and for individuals and communities and the work concludes.