E-WASTE GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA: UNRAVELING NIGERIA’S LEGAL STRUGGLE WITH E-WASTE IN A GLOBALIZED WORLD

Abstract

Nigeria faces a mounting electronic waste (e-waste) crisis, importing 500,000 tons of used electronics
annually and generating over 277,000 tons domestically, yet its legal framework struggles to respond
effectively. This article examines the deficiencies in Nigeria’s e-waste governance, focusing on the National
Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (Establishment) Act, 2007, and the 2016
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy. These laws lack specificity and enforcement power,
leaving over 80% of e-waste to an unregulated informal sector, resulting in severe environmental pollution,
health risks, and economic losses. Nigeria’s obligations under the Basel Convention (1989) to curb illegal
imports remain unmet, exacerbating the crisis. Analyzing the impacts of polluted soil, respiratory illnesses,
and squandered resources the article critiques the NESREA Act’s generality and the EPR policy’s
implementation failures. Drawing on international best practices, it proposes a new E-Waste Management
Act to mandate producer-funded collection, an eco-levy for recycling infrastructure, and regulations to
formalize informal workers, inspired by Japan, Ghana, and the EU. Strengthening NESREA’s enforcement
capacity is critical to align with global standards. In a world producing 62 million tons of e-waste in 2022,
Nigeria’s reform could set a precedent for Africa. This article calls for legislative action, institutional
enhancement, and international support to transform Nigeria’s e-waste management into a model of legal
resilience.