ABSTRACT
The environmental degradation witnessed by the Nigerian state since the discovery of oil in 1956 is well documented. The oil rich Niger Delta region, which is the single largest source of Federal revenue, has been the locus of oil spills, violent agitation, and high levels of poverty incommensurate with the quantum of petrodollars generated over the years. In the global market, the shale revolution and diminished demand for crude prompted the urgent need for diversification of Nigeria’s mono-product economy. To invigorate its economy and to meet the developmental needs of its rapidly increasing population, it is inevitable that Nigeria must build industries and balance its current infrastructure deficit. The challenge, however, is how to balance developmental necessities like the construction of megaprojects to propel economic growth, with the attendant need to ensure the maintenance of a sustainable environment. This dilemma remains a thorn in the flesh of African countries whose economies largely center on extractive industries. This chapter examines the adequacy of extant law for the management of mega infrastructure projects within the context of sustainable development in Nigeria.
