Summary:
Obtaining an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Certificate in Nigeria involves a structured process overseen by the Environmental Assessment Department (EAD) of the Federal Ministry of Environment. Key steps include project registration, submission of Terms of Reference (TOR), site verification and data gathering, laboratory analysis, draft report submission, public display, technical and panel reviews, and final certification. Total fees range from ₦50,000 for registration to ₦10,000,000 for panel review, with a certification fee of ₦100,000. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step roadmap and official cost breakdown from the Federal Ministry’s publications, ensuring compliance with the EIA Act and global best practices.
1. Understanding EIA in Nigeria
1.1 What Is an EIA?
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process used to identify, predict, and evaluate the environmental consequences of proposed developments before decisions are made. It ensures that environmental considerations are integrated into project planning and decision-making.
1.2 Legal Framework
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EIA Act, CAP E12 LFN 2004: Mandates that any significant project must undergo EIA before implementation.
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NESREA Enforcement: Since 2007, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) enforces EIA compliance, with federal jurisdiction affirmed by the Court of Appeal in 2015.
2. The Responsible MDA: Environmental Assessment Department (EAD)
The EAD is the technical department within the Federal Ministry of Environment responsible for evaluating and approving EIA reports across Nigeria. The department maintains the official EAD portal (ead.gov.ng) for guidelines and forms.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your EIA Certificate
3.1 Stage 1: Project Registration & Application
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Obtain and Complete the Registration Form
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Download or collect the EIA notification form from the EAD office, Environment House, Independence Way South, Central Business District, Abuja .
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Submit to EAD
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Submit within 5 working days to the EAD, including site location details and project overview.
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3.2 Stage 2: Terms of Reference (TOR)
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Prepare TOR: Engage an accredited environmental consultant to draft the TOR, outlining project scope, methodology, and stakeholders.
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Submit TOR: EAD reviews and approves TOR within 2 weeks of submission.
3.3 Stage 3: Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)
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EAD Conducts IEE: Includes site reconnaissance and preliminary evaluation to determine the level of EIA required.
3.4 Stage 4: Site Verification & Data Gathering
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Site Verification: Regulators from the Federal Ministry and the project’s consultant conduct on-site checks.
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Fee: ₦500,000 for site verification facilitation.
3.5 Stage 5: Laboratory Analysis
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Sample Testing: Samples sent to accredited labs; regulators witness analysis.
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Fee: ₦250,000 for lab analysis witnessing.
3.6 Stage 6: Draft EIA Report Submission
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Compile Report: Consultant prepares draft EIA report in hard and soft copy.
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Submit to EAD: Within two months of site verification.
3.7 Stage 7: Public Display
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Display Period: Documents displayed for 21 working days in affected Local Government Areas and online portals.
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Objective: Solicit public comments and stakeholder input.
3.8 Stage 8: Technical & Panel Review
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In-House Technical Review
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Conducted by EAD; fee ranges ₦500,000–₦1,500,000.
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Panel Review
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Includes federal, state, and local representatives; fee ranges ₦1,000,000–₦10,000,000.
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3.9 Stage 9: Final Report & Certification
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Incorporate Comments: Consultant revises report per review feedback.
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Certification Fee: ₦100,000 issued upon satisfactory compliance.
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Issuance: EAD issues the EIA Certificate, allowing project implementation with mitigation measures.
4. Official Cost Breakdown
| Activity | Fee (₦) | |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | 50,000 | |
| Site Verification | 500,000 | |
| Scoping Workshop | 500,000 | |
| Data Gathering Witnessing | 250,000 | |
| Data Analysis Witnessing | 250,000 | |
| In-House Technical Review | 500,000–1,500,000 | |
| Panel Review | 1,000,000–10,000,000 | |
| Certification | 100,000 | |
| Certificate Re-Issuance (if needed) | 500,000 |
All payments are remitted to the Environmental Assessment Department, Federal Ministry of Environment, Environment House, Independence Way South, Abuja FCT.
5. Requirements & Documentation
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Completed EIA Notification Form.
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Approved TOR.
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Evidence of payment (bank teller or e-receipt).
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Draft EIA report (2 hard copies + soft copy).
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Public display notice and proof (photos/affidavits).
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Final revised EIA report.
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Valid IDs of project proponent and consultant.
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Company incorporation documents (if applicable).
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Any sector-specific permits (e.g., land, water use).
6. Common Misconceptions
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Misconception: “Only large projects need EIA.”
Clarification: Any project likely to impact the environment significantly—regardless of size—requires EIA. -
Misconception: “State agencies can issue federal EIA certificates.”
Clarification: Only the Federal Ministry’s EAD issues EIA Certificates; states facilitate local consultations. -
Misconception: “The process takes over a year.”
Clarification: With complete documentation and prompt fees, the EIA process can conclude within 4–6 months.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who issues the EIA Certificate in Nigeria?
A: The Environmental Assessment Department (EAD) of the Federal Ministry of Environment issues all EIA Certificates.
Q2: How long does the EIA process take?
A: Typically 4–6 months, depending on project complexity and prompt payment of fees.
Q3: What is the cost of obtaining an EIA Certificate?
A: Total costs range from ₦50,000 (registration) to ₦10,000,000 (panel review), plus ₦100,000 certification fee. See full table above.
Q4: Can I start construction before certification?
A: No. Carrying out project activities before certification is a violation and attracts penalties under the EIA Act.
Q5: Are consultants required to be accredited?
A: Yes. Only EIA practitioners registered and certified by the Practitioners Board under the EIA Act may prepare reports .
By following these official steps and ensuring timely payment of statutory fees as published by the Federal Ministry of Environment’s EAD, your project will achieve compliance and secure the necessary EIA Certificate for implementation.
