Legal and Practical Challenges of Combating Noise Pollution in Nigeria

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the legal challenges of combating noise pollution in Nigeria. Noise pollution is among the greatest environmental problems currently confronting the country. Although Nigeria has enacted several laws and adopted policies to address the challenge, these measures have not yielded the desired results. In fact, while other forms of pollution are decreasing, noise pollution continues to rise, largely because a significant proportion of noise is generated from legitimate human activities. Furthermore, the Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to freedom of worship and freedom of expression, does not specify the permissible decibel levels that should not be exceeded in the exercise of these rights. Against this background, the paper re-evaluates the environmental challenges inherent in such constitutional provisions and offers solutions for improvement. A doctrinal method of research was adopted, drawing on both primary and secondary sources of data. The paper recommends, among others, the strict enforcement of existing laws in Nigeria to ensure effective regulation of noise pollution.