EVALUATION OF WATER POLLUTION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Water pollution is a significant environmental issue in Nigeria, impacting public health, ecosystems, and economic activities. The legal framework for controlling water pollution in Nigeria encompasses various federal and state regulations, policies, and institutional structures designed to safeguard water resources and ensure sustainable management. This study investigates the legal framework for controlling water pollution in Nigeria, analyzing the effectiveness of existing legislation and regulations related to water pollutions control in Nigeria, including key acts and regulations such as Federal Environmental Protection Agency Act, the National Water Resources Act, and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act examines key laws such as the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) Act, the National Water Resources Act, and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Act. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of these legal instruments in managing and mitigating water pollution. this includes examining enforcement mechanisms, compliance levels, and the impact on water quality, identify institutional roles and responsibilities to investigate the roles and responsibilities of various institutions involved in water pollution control such as the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement agencies, and highlight challenges and gaps in implementation which involves assessing issues such as regulatory overlaps, enforcement challenges, and the adequacy of water quality standards. By evaluating the current legal and institutional framework, the study seeks to provide recommendations for improving water pollution control measures that includes suggesting policy changes, enhancing enforcement mechanisms and improving stakeholders engagement. The findings aim to contribute to more effective management of water resources and enhanced protection of water quality in Nigeria.