NESREA begins review of environmental permits

The Federal Government has initiated a review of the National Environmental Protection (Permitting and Licensing Systems) Regulations, SI 29, 2009, to address gaps related to current and emerging environmental issues.

Speaking at the Review Assessment Expert Meeting held in Abuja recently, the Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, Dr. Innocent Barikor, said the document aims to strengthen environmental protection laws.

He said the regulation also aims to improve air quality and protect the environment and avoid exposure to waste and hazardous substances.

“The regulation aims to achieve statutory environmental objectives and outcomes, such as improving air quality, protecting the environment and avoiding exposure to waste and hazardous substances, through the issuance of environmental permits to the regulated community.

“These permits have significantly assisted the agency in its mandate to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, policies, standards and guidelines. However, during the operationalization of these provisions over the last 15 years, some gaps have been identified.”

He added that these gaps include popular and emerging environmental issues such as climate change, marine pollution and biodiversity conservation, which are of concern around the world.

Barikor asserted that these factors necessitated the need for NESER to seek assistance through rapid gains from its 5-year impact plan under the UNEP-LEAP Small Scale Financing Agreement.

He said this was covered by Montevideo’s V program, which aims to facilitate the review of the regulation.

According to DG NEERA, permitting and licensing rules constitute the basis providing the structure necessary to balance economic growth, innovation and public security.

“However, as with any system, there is always room for improvement. There is a need for continued efforts to refine and enhance our regulatory processes,” he said.

He said the agency has so far conducted computer reviews/documentation and engaged with relevant stakeholders in six geopolitical zones, adding that the agency has also engaged with stakeholders from 35 states of the federation through its field and state offices.

Barikor urged stakeholders to view the review process as a testament to the agency’s commitment to leaving a legacy of environmental sustainability for future generations.

Former Director of NEERA Planning and Policy Analysis Department Victor Ojogbo said the environmental issue was critical.

Ojogbo said the essence of the review was to examine issues of crime, penalties for defaulters and enforcement of the law by the agency.

He stated: “The review would also ensure that regulators and regulators are put on their feet to ensure smooth enforcement.

“I said that environmental issues cannot be treated with kid gloves, because if it affects me, it also affects you and then the environment.”ru