Endangered Species Legislation in Nigeria: Analysis of Domestic Legal Instruments

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of endangered species legislation in Nigeria, examining the domestic legal instruments that govern wildlife conservation and the challenges faced in enforcement. It begins with an overview of Nigeria’s rich biodiversity and highlights notable endangered species along with key threats to their survival. The discussion then delves into the primary legal frameworks, focusing on the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act (NESREA), while identifying significant gaps and inconsistencies within these laws. The article further explores the enforcement challenges posed by resource constraints, corruption, and limited political will, as well as the crucial role of community involvement and public awareness in successful conservation efforts. A comparative analysis with international standards reveals areas of alignment and gaps in Nigeria's legislation concerning global conservation commitments. The article concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening Nigeria's endangered species conservation framework, emphasizing the need for legislative updates, increased funding, enhanced community engagement, and greater public awareness to foster a collective responsibility for protecting the nation’s biodiversity.