FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ACT
Act · Environment
Policy date: 2007-01-01
An Act establishes the Federal Environmental Protection Agency to set and enforce environmental standards. It targets industries causing pollution and communities affected by environmental degradation. This protects Nigeria's environment from harmful activities.
FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ACT
What Is This Policy?
An Act establishing the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) as Nigeria's first dedicated environmental protection body, now largely superseded by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Who Does It Target?
Industries with environmental impact Federal Government as regulator Communities affected by environmental degradation NESREA as FEPA's successor body
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Establish a national body to protect Nigeria's environment from industrial and human-caused pollution, set environmental standards, and enforce compliance.
Key Features
Environmental Standards: Empowers FEPA (now NESREA) to set pollution limits and environmental quality standards. Enforcement: Grants inspection, sampling, and prosecution powers to enforce environmental regulations. Impact Assessment: Establishes environmental impact assessment as a requirement for major projects. International Cooperation: Enables Nigeria to participate in international environmental agreements.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Superseded by NESREA Act 2007 for most functions Coverage: Nationwide environmental regulation Beneficiaries: Nigerian public; environment Funding: Federal Government
How to Access
Engage NESREA for current environmental regulation and compliance EIA submission required for major development projects Application method: Current environmental matters: NESREA at https://www.nesrea.gov.ng
Important Terms
NESREA Act 2007 repealed FEPA and transferred its functions to NESREA FEPA regulations remain in effect until revoked by NESREA EIA is mandatory for all specified categories of development
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nesrea.gov.ng Contact: National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA)
Legal Framework
The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) Act established FEPA as the primary environmental protection body. It is recognized under Section 315 of the 1999 Constitution as an existing law but has been largely superseded by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Act 2007, which replaced FEPA. The Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992 was enacted under the FEPA framework and continues as the primary EIA legislation.