Towards concrete legislative measures for sustainable development in Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines the concept of sustainable development that seeks to mutually achieve promotion of national environmental, economic and social development without compromising the needs of future generations, from the perspective of Nigeria. Case laws from Nigeria and other jurisdictions have further demonstrated the need to promote sustainable development in guaranteeing the current needs and that of the future generations. Nigeria has laws that seek to achieve sustainable development components. However, much has not been achieved in the implementation of sustainable development. The article concludes that, while there are laws which generally achieve environmental, economic and social benefits of sustainable development, they are weak and have not effectively promoted sustainable development in Nigeria. More pragmatic approach towards the development of concrete laws that will create duties on the path of government and private sectors to mainstream sustainable development in their actions and planning are suggested as being expedient. This should include the promotion of rule of law, development of specialised law placing on the government a duty to promote sustainable development and putting in place a social welfare law that addresses poverty.