A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF THE ENFORCEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The importance of a healthy environment cannot be overemphasized. Despite the existence of numerous environmental laws in Nigeria, there is degradation of the country’s ecosystem as a result of weak compliance with environmental laws. This research interrogates the extant legal and institutional framework regulating the environment; these include the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Environmental Impact Assessment Act, 1992, Petroleum Act, 2004, Petroleum Industry Act, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act, 2007, and their enforcement. The methodology adopted is doctrinal. Findings show that Nigeria has a plethora of environmental laws, but there are many challenges hindering their enforcement and the optimal performance of the regulatory agencies; recommendations are proffered for the effective enforcement of environmental laws in Nigeria.