National Environmental (Wetlands, River Banks and Lake Shores Protection) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. No. 26 of 2009).

These Regulations are made by the Minister of Environment pursuant to the provisions of section 34 of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (Establishment) Act, 2007. They apply to all wetlands in Nigeria. These Regulations provide for the following; the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources; minimize and control pollution; ensure water catchments conservation and flood control; ensure the sustainable use of wetlands for ecological and tourism purposes; and ensure that wetlands are protected as habitats for species of fauna and flora. The Regulations further provide that the Agency in collaboration with relevant agencies, State and Local Governments, communities and other stakeholders, shall compile an inventory of all wetlands for determining the purposes of their conservation status. The Regulations place some enormous responsibility on State and Local Governments and land owners in the protection and sustainability of wetlands. The Regulation controls the use of wetlands and provides that a permit must be sought and obtained prior to the use of wetlands. The Regulations provide stiff penalties for its contravention.