LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR MITIGATING ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Environmental degradation is a major governance challenge in Nigeria, evident in oil pollution, deforestation, desertification, poor waste management, and the deterioration of aquatic ecosystems. This article examines the legal and institutional framework for mitigating environmental harm, assessing the effectiveness of constitutional provisions, environmental statutes, regulatory guidelines, and international obligations incorporated into domestic law. It evaluates the roles of key regulatory institutions, highlighting weaknesses such as overlapping mandates, limited enforcement capacity, inadequate funding, and political interference. The study also considers the impact of weak compliance culture, insufficient data systems, and minimal public participation on environmental governance outcomes, with particular focus on extractive industries and land-based pollution sources. Using a doctrinal and analytical approach, the article argues that while Nigeria has a robust legislative framework, the primary challenge lies in implementation and coordination. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms, enhancing regulatory independence, promoting access to environmental information, and integrating community participation are essential for effective mitigation. The article concludes that institutional accountability and policy coherence must be prioritised to translate environmental protection from normative aspiration into practical reality within Nigeria’s developmental framework.