EVALUATING COMPLIANCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STANDARDS IN DAM INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) standards in dam infrastructure projects in selected states of North-Central Nigeria, focusing on stakeholder perceptions and actual adherence to regulatory requirements. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to stakeholders and a review of EIA reports. Results show moderate compliance: 55% of stakeholders perceived adherence to EIA procedures, yet only 30–40% indicated compliance with environmental monitoring and stakeholder engagement. Review of EIA reports revealed partial compliance in impact predictions, mitigation measures, and monitoring plans, indicating gaps in practical implementation. Correlation analysis showed strong alignment between perceived and actual compliance for EIA procedures (r = 0.85), but weaker alignment for environmental monitoring (r = 0.68) and public accessibility (r = 0.50). The findings highlight critical deficiencies in monitoring, transparency, and stakeholder involvement, which may undermine sustainable development objectives. Strengthening enforcement, improving transparency, and enhancing stakeholder participation are recommended to ensure effective EIA implementation and the environmental sustainability of dam projects.This study assessed compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) standards in dam infrastructure projects in selected states of North-Central Nigeria, focusing on stakeholder perceptions and actual adherence to regulatory requirements. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to stakeholders and a review of EIA reports. Results show moderate compliance: 55% of stakeholders perceived adherence to EIA procedures, yet only 30–40% indicated compliance with environmental monitoring and stakeholder engagement. Review of EIA reports revealed partial compliance in impact predictions, mitigation measures, and monitoring plans, indicating gaps in practical implementation. Correlation analysis showed strong alignment between perceived and actual compliance for EIA procedures (r = 0.85), but weaker alignment for environmental monitoring (r = 0.68) and public accessibility (r = 0.50). The findings highlight critical deficiencies in monitoring, transparency, and stakeholder involvement, which may undermine sustainable development objectives. Strengthening enforcement, improving transparency, and enhancing stakeholder participation are recommended to ensure effective EIA implementation and the environmental sustainability of dam projects.