An analysis of the Nigerian regulatory framework for water pollution control - lessons from South Africa

Abstract

This mini-dissertation titled 'An analysis of the Nigerian regulatory framework for water pollution control - Lessons from South Africa' examines the regulatory framework for water pollution control in Nigeria and considers whether the regulatory regime imposes adequate and effective liability and compensation that discourage water pollution, and if not how it can be improved particularly with inspiration drawn from South African law. Water is the source of life for humans, plants and animals. Bad, polluted water makes life unbearable for humans, plants and animals. The Nigerian Constitution imposes an obligation on the state to ensure the improvement and protection of the Nigerian environment generally and to safeguard air, water and land in Nigeria in particular. Oil exploration and exploitation as well as many other human activities have resulted in environmental degradation in Nigeria and these have occasioned serious adverse socio-economic consequences and threatened sustainable growth and development in the country. The pollution of water resources in Nigeria is therefore of great concern. If left unattended, it will certainly continue to bring terrible consequences. This mini-dissertation examines the regulatory framework for water pollution control in Nigeria and South Africa against the backdrop of a sustainable development paradigm which incorporates key principles of international environmental law such as the preventive principle, the polluter pays principle, the doctrine of trusteeship and the notion of strict liability. It then proffers recommendations for improving the regulatory framework for water pollution control in Nigeria.