Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) effectiveness and “local context” : the case of Nigeria

Abstract

Principles of environmental impact assessment have been in use in Nigeria since 1969, first with respect to oil and gas exploration and subsequently (in 1992), for development planning in other sectors. Existing research suggests that the use of EIA has not generally been effective in preventing adverse environmental impacts. Context is an important factor to consider in EIA, and an understanding of what it means is understood to be important to the promotion of a better performing and effective EIA system. This thesis investigates the meaning and implication of “local context” in EIA, and how contextual factors in formal and informal aspects of the Nigerian system exerts influence on EIA effectiveness. To meet this aim, this thesis answers the following research questions: what constitutes “local context” in EIA practice and how does it influence effective EIA practice? What contextual factors are associated with EIA implementation in Nigeria and how do these factors influence effective EIA practice? How do actors within the Nigerian EIA practice exert influence on EIA effectiveness? This thesis employs a qualitative research strategy, utilising both primary and secondary data. A multidisciplinary review of relevant literature in fields closely related to EIA and of the environmental assessment literature, was conducted to unpack the meaning of context and its use in EIA, particularly in terms of the extent to which different locales are represented and considered in EIA practice. This led to framing of “local context” in terms of the interaction between formal and informal factors in the EIA system. Using a case-study approach, the views of key actors in the Nigerian EIA system were obtained. A range of data collection methods were used including interviews, focus groups and a questionnaire survey. The research findings revealed that EIA in Nigeria is a formal process implemented within unique community structures, traditions, customs and practices, defined by the interaction of formal and informal factors operating at different levels. Furthermore, the case-study findings show that informal aspects were not accounted for in the EIA process, leading to the exclusion of so-called informal groups, who are not recognised by EIA system and the traditions in the community, raising concerns about legitimacy, fairness and justice. A key finding in this study is that there is a lack of synergy between formal and informal factors in the Nigerian EIA system, and this undermines the requirements of the “local context” for effective EIA.