NIGERIA INSTITUTE OF SOIL SCIENCE ESTABLISHMENT ETC ACT 2017
Act · Energy
Policy date: 2017-01-01
An Act that establishes the Nigeria Institute of Soil Science as a regulatory body for soil scientists. It targets practitioners, agricultural institutions, and government agencies to set standards and promote sustainable soil management. This advances research and ensures qualified professionals handle soil assessments.
What Is This Policy?
An Act establishing the Nigeria Institute of Soil Science (NISS) as the professional and regulatory body for soil scientists in Nigeria, responsible for setting standards, registering practitioners, conducting examinations, and promoting sustainable soil management.
Who Does It Target?
Soil scientists, pedologists, and soil fertility specialists Agricultural research institutions and universities Government agencies responsible for land use, environmental management, and agriculture Environmental consultants undertaking soil assessments
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
To professionalise soil science practice in Nigeria, ensure that soil assessments and management recommendations are made by qualified practitioners, and advance research and awareness of soil as a critical national resource.
Key Features
Professional Registration: NISS maintains a register of qualified soil scientists and issues certificates of practice. Examinations: Conducts qualifying examinations for membership at various professional grades. Code of Professional Conduct: Members are bound by an ethical code governing professional practice. Research and Publications: NISS promotes soil science research and publishes guidelines for soil management. Regulatory Advice: Provides technical advice to government on soil policy, land degradation, and erosion control.
Current Status
In force. NISS is operational, with the council registering soil scientists, accrediting educational programmes, and promoting sustainable soil management practices across Nigeria.
Hold a relevant academic qualification in soil science or an allied field Apply for membership and sit the qualifying examination Pay annual subscriptions to maintain good standing Application method: NISS headquarters, Abuja
Important Terms
Holding out as a registered soil scientist without NISS registration is an offence Members must observe continuing professional development requirements Disciplinary proceedings may result in suspension or expulsion
Official Resources
Website: www.niss.gov.ng Policy Summary Document | Federal Republic of Nigeria
Legal Framework
The Nigeria Institute of Soil Science (Establishment) Act establishes the NISS under statute. It operates under the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security mandate, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act 2011, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992 (on soil conservation). International alignment is with the FAO Global Soil Partnership, the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) on land degradation, and the ITPS (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) soil assessment guidelines.