The hum of passionate discussion filled the air as stakeholders from across Nigeria gathered for a crucial dialogue. On the topic at hand, “the nation’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act and its vital role in shaping a sustainable future. From seasoned environmental advocates to local communities, civil society organizations, representatives from government agencies to private sector developers, the room buzzed with a shared commitment; to propose a modernized EIA bill that reflects current environmental realities, strengthens environmental governance, and ensures accountability. The National Stakeholders Dialogue on the EIA Act was not just another conference. It was a pivotal moment, a chance to collectively examine the Act’s effectiveness, identify its gaps, and forge a path towards a more impactful environmental protection regime. The meeting organized by GIFSEP in collaboration with Oxfam in Nigeria, brought together diverse voices, recognizing that effective environmental stewardship requires collaboration and inclusivity.

Over the course of one day, which was held on 5th of December 2024, participants delved into the intricacies of the EIA process, exploring from project screening and scoping to public participation to monitoring and evaluation. The executive director of GIFSEP stated that “the dialogue aimed to assess the successes, limitations, and lessons from the EIA Act’s implementation, while exploring opportunities for improvement.” One recurring theme throughout the dialogue was the importance of public participation. Speakers emphasized that EIA Acts are not just technical documents, they are tools for empowering communities to have a say in how development unfolds in their backyards. The dialogue highlighted the need for greater transparency and access to information, ensuring that communities are well-informed and can effectively advocate for their environmental rights.

As the dialogue drew to a close, a sense of progress hung in the air. While the challenges are significant, the collective commitment to strengthen the EIA Act was undeniable. The insights and recommendations generated during the dialogue will form the basis for policy revisions and legislative reforms, ultimately shaping the future of environmental rights and protection in Nigeria.