In a recent stakeholder engagement session held at Alausa, the Lagos State Government urged the adoption of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as a crucial tool for effective environmental management. The call was made by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who stressed the necessity of EIA in achieving sustainable development.
Represented by Dr. Hassan Sanuth, the Director of Sanitation Services, Wahab highlighted the significance of EIA in identifying potential adverse and beneficial impacts of projects. The primary objective is to implement measures that mitigate adverse effects, emphasizing the global acceptance of EIA as a decision-making tool for environmental protection.
Wahab underscored that as a preferred destination for various businesses, Lagos experiences economic growth and prosperity, accompanied by environmental and social challenges. Factors such as industrial facilities, new settlements, and infrastructure development contribute to adverse environmental impacts, including pollution of air, land, and water.
The workshop convened ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and stakeholders in the built and environment sector to deliberate on the pivotal role of EIA and safeguard instruments in achieving sustainable development in Lagos State. The initiative aligns with a recent circular from the Head of the State Public Service, emphasizing the mandatory application of EIA for all projects through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.
The Commissioner highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing environmental degradation and ecological challenges resulting from unsustainable development. He emphasized that the cost of adhering to proper environmental practices is far less than the expenses incurred in correcting the consequences of neglect.
Wahab reiterated the government’s dedication to creating awareness about EIA, citing the production of a Citizens Guide on EIA and stakeholder engagement meetings across local government areas. Audio-visual documentaries in Yoruba and Pidgin English were also developed to enhance awareness.
The Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, echoed the importance of EIA as a crucial management tool for nations aspiring to achieve sustainable development. He emphasized that MDAs and stakeholders play a pivotal role in realizing the objectives of development agendas, ensuring that projects positively impact people’s lives while mitigating environmental consequences.
During the session, Prof Babajide Alo, a university professor, emphasized the paramount importance of EIA as the initial step before embarking on any construction project. He emphasized how EIA promotes environmentally sound development by identifying suitable alternatives and implementing mitigating measures.