Placing the Rule of Law and Environmental Justice in the Resource-Conflict Nexus in Nigeria

Africa is undeniably blessed with abundant natural resources, which, if effectively managed, could lead to substantial economic growth. However, the continent has also witnessed numerous internal conflicts that are closely linked to the exploitation of these resources. Using Nigeria as a case study, this chapter critically analyses the effects of protracted conflicts caused by natural resources and their impact on the environment. It shows how the two concepts of “rule of law” and “environmental justice” can be deployed as a conceptual tool to address natural resource conflicts. The chapter argues that incorporating these concepts into the legal and regulatory framework governing the extractive industry can serve as a viable strategy to tackle natural resource conflicts in Nigeria. It then analyses the effectiveness of these concepts in addressing natural resource conflicts on the African continent in general. This chapter concludes that except the rule of law and environmental justice concepts are fully embedded into laws, regulations, and institutions governing the extractive industry, natural resource conflicts will not abate in Nigeria. By doing so, the continent can move towards sustainable and responsible management of its valuable natural resources and mitigate the root causes of internal conflicts linked to resource exploitation.