The Lagos State Government has reinforced its commitment to environmental protection by emphasizing the mandatory nature of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approvals for all development projects within the state. This requirement, applicable to both public and private sector initiatives, underscores the government’s recognition of the EIA process as a crucial tool for sustainable development. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, reiterated this position during a stakeholders’ workshop aimed at sensitizing real estate practitioners and project developers about the importance and legal implications of EIA compliance. The workshop served as a platform to clarify the scope of projects falling under the EIA mandate and to highlight the potential environmental and socio-economic consequences of neglecting this critical assessment.
The mandatory EIA requirement encompasses a wide range of development activities, from large-scale infrastructure projects to residential buildings. Specifically, projects such as estate developments involving five-floor buildings or more, residential structures with eight or more apartment units, commercial establishments like shopping malls and filling stations, industrial facilities, extractive activities like sand mining and dredging, and land reclamation projects all necessitate prior EIA approval. This comprehensive approach reflects the government’s proactive stance in mitigating potential environmental risks associated with various development types, ensuring that urbanization and industrial growth do not come at the expense of environmental sustainability and public well-being.
The rationale behind the mandatory EIA process stems from the understanding that preventing environmental degradation is significantly more cost-effective than addressing its consequences. Rotimi-Akodu stressed the potentially high costs associated with neglecting environmental considerations during project development, highlighting the financial burden of remediation efforts compared to the relatively lower cost of implementing environmentally sound practices from the outset. This proactive approach aims to minimize long-term environmental damage, safeguarding the state’s natural resources and promoting a healthier environment for its citizens. By integrating environmental considerations into the early stages of project planning, the government aims to ensure that development proceeds in a manner that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable.
The stakeholders’ workshop, deemed both timely and relevant, reflects the state government’s commitment to fostering collaboration between government agencies, developers, and environmental professionals. Dr. Tajudeen Gaji, Permanent Secretary in the Office of Environmental Services, emphasized the workshop’s importance in promoting sustainable development within the state. He highlighted the EIA process as a globally recognized safeguard instrument for protecting the environment and public health, underscoring its significance in mitigating potential adverse impacts of development projects. The workshop provided a forum for open dialogue and information sharing, facilitating a better understanding of the EIA process and its implications for all stakeholders involved.
Dr. Olasunkanmi Sojinu, Director of the Environmental Assessment Department, provided further clarity on the legal framework governing EIA compliance. He referenced the EIA Act CAP E12 LFN 2004 and the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017, which provide the legislative backbone for the mandatory EIA requirement. These legal instruments not only mandate the conduct of EIAs for specified projects but also outline the procedures, timelines, and responsibilities associated with the assessment process. This legal framework ensures that the EIA process is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner, providing a robust mechanism for environmental protection.
The Lagos State Government’s emphasis on mandatory EIAs reflects a commitment to sustainable development, recognizing the interconnectedness of economic progress and environmental well-being. By enforcing compliance with the EIA process, the government aims to minimize the environmental footprint of development projects, protect the state’s natural resources, and create a healthier environment for its citizens. The stakeholders’ workshop served as a crucial step in achieving this objective by fostering collaboration, disseminating information, and ensuring that all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities in upholding environmental sustainability. This proactive approach to environmental management will contribute significantly to the long-term health and prosperity of Lagos State.
