ENFORCEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT IN THE OPERATIONS OF THE OIL AND GAS INDUTRY IN NIGERIA: NEED FOR A PARADIGM SHIFT

Abstract

In general, more regulation was expected to harness the EIA tool for improved governance of the oil and gas industry’s operations, where as it stands now; not much has been achieved yet. The country suffers a great deal due to poor control and management of events in the oil and gas sector that result in environmental issues such as contamination, pollution and ruins; even with all the laws, regulations and institutional directives. The doctrinal research approach which guided this study towards the examination on what constitutes the activities of a certain and particular area (i.e. oil and or gas), their manner of operation (including those relating to EIA requirements) as well as their compliance level both with national legal framework and others such like international conventions- treaties-protocols-textbook references-case laws among others,  with regard to how enforcement or compliance cum recommendation on environmental concerns/ social-economic developmental initiatives have so far been pursued. Thus far, some activities seemingly complies with current needs (societal demands) without prejudicing its future generations’ entitlements. There is ample evidence showing that operations of oil companies in Nigeria led to severe negative impacts on environment, aquatic animals, jobs, economic trees and crops due to recurrent spillages, fire incidences as well as gas flaring which could have largely been stopped or minimized if proper enforcement of directives and recommendations were put into practice. Specific suggestions on measures for bringing about improved socio-economic/deployment without compromising environmental integrity for posterity in Nigerian Oil Industry are equally recommended.