CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS NORMS IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION IN NIGERIA: NEW DISCOVERIES FROM OTHER JURISDICTIONS

Abstract

This article examined enforcement of human rights in environmental protection in Nigeria. The
article adopted the doctrinal method of research with primary sources of information derived
from legislation and case laws, while the secondary sources were derived from textbooks and
journal articles. The article found out that there are several problems with the enforcement of
human rights in environmental protection in Nigeria. These problems include lack of political
will and lack of adequate monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with
environmental laws. The article concluded that there are both challenges and opportunities for
enforcing human rights in environmental protection in Nigeria. The article recommends,
among others, that there should be increased funding and capacity for environmental
institutions, such as National Environmental Standards, Regulations and Enforcement Agency
and the Federal Ministry of Environment; passage and implementation of new environmental
laws and regulations, including a comprehensive climate change law;and strengthening public
participation in environmental decision-making.