Swott Analysis of Environmental Impact Assessment System: A Case Study of Geregu Power Plant Phase II, Ajaokuta, Kogi State, Nigeria

The study examined the strength, weaknesses, opportunities, threats and trends (SWOTT) of Environmental Impact Assessment system in Nigeria using Geregu Power Plant Phase II in Ajaokuta, Kogi state as case study. The study area population comprised of project’s host communities and other stake holders in the National EIA system. The purposive sampling method of data collection was used to select the samples. Five hundred (500) respondents contributed to the survey of which questionnaires were administered. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics for evaluation of respondents rating which includes, The Extent of National EIA System compliance, strengths and short comings of the National EIA System, Current practice of EIA System, Criteria influencing the national EIA System, Extent of improvement of national EIA System among others. Findings from the research indicate that the establishment of a regulatory Authority is one of the major strengths of the National EIA System. One of the major weaknesses of the national EIA system is the non-consideration of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), while on the opportunities is the tiered assessment. Threats mainly observed are the unacceptability and the misunderstanding of the multi-discipline nature of EIA, while the best global practices in the EIA process management is one of the major trends. As a result of the findings, it was recommended that there is a need to improve on the EIA System strength maximally, prioritize turning of the weaknesses of national EIA system to world class ESIA practise and to promote EIA system by taking advantage of opportunities. Furthermore, government cannot avoid ignoring the weakness of the EIA system and threat or fail to improve on the strength of the EIA system or value opportunity that need to develop the system and increase capacity of the EIA system operators.