Communities demand a voice—new EIA framework aims to end exclusion and promote environmental justice.
Environmental stakeholders have unveiled a new initiative to make Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) more inclusive in Nigeria. The framework, discussed at the Inclusive Environment Nigeria Workshop in Lagos, seeks to tackle decades of community exclusion and environmental injustice in development projects.
Dr. Eghosa Ekhator of the University of Derby explained that the Inclusive Environments (Environmental Justice) Framework draws on co-production principles, ensuring communities are actively involved in decision-making and project planning.
Philip Jakpor of Renevlyn Development Initiative said traditional EIAs often sideline communities. “People are supposed to inform whether projects proceed and what safeguards are implemented. Right now, EIAs are often a formality with no transparency,” he said.
Ogoni activist Chief Eric Dooh highlighted decades of oil exploration in his region, noting the devastation of farming and fishing livelihoods due to lack of consultation. “If development must continue, communities must be involved in planning, empowerment, and environmental management. That’s the only way to ensure peace and sustainability,” he added.
The workshop brought together policymakers, academics, civil society, and community representatives, all calling for stronger collaboration to ensure development projects are equitable and environmentally responsible.
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