The Role of Nigerian Environmental Law in Regulating Fracking and Unconventional Fossil Fuel Extraction

Hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as fracking, along with other unconventional fossil fuel extraction methods, has sparked intense debate in Nigeria’s energy sector due to their complex environmental, social, and legal implications. As the global energy mix increasingly incorporates non-traditional resources such as shale gas, oil sands, and other unconventional hydrocarbons Nigeria’s substantial shale gas reserves, estimated at over 600 trillion cubic feet, represent a significant untapped resource. However, the country’s existing legal and regulatory architecture remains ill-equipped to manage the risks and intricacies associated with these technologies. This paper critically assesses the adequacy and effectiveness of Nigeria’s environmental legal regime in regulating hydraulic fracturing. Special attention is given to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act 1992, alongside international instruments such as the UNEP Guidelines on Hydraulic Fracturing and the Paris Agreement. Using a doctrinal research methodology that analyzes statutory frameworks, case law, and comparative international jurisprudence, the study highlights critical gaps in legal coverage, regulatory enforcement, public participation, and liability attribution. Key findings indicate that the EIA process is inconsistently implemented, there are jurisdictional ambiguities between federal and state authorities, and Nigeria lacks comprehensive legislation specifically tailored to fracking. Additionally, the study reveals limited institutional capacity to monitor and enforce environmental compliance. The paper concludes by proposing legal reforms aimed at integrating fracking-specific provisions, improving institutional coordination, enhancing public engagement, and promoting community-driven environmental governance to ensure that Nigeria’s pursuit of energy security does not come at the expense of ecological integrity and social justice