LEGAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE EXTENSION OF NIGERIA’S EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE

Abstract

The marine ecosystem holds abundant economic resources. As expected therefore, the right of access and usage of the maritime area has historically been a subject of international disputes. Current international law approach under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 seeks to provide equitable legal framework for the enjoyment of maritime resources. The aim of this paper was to examine the legal implications of the approval of the extension of the exclusive economic zone of Nigeria. The paper adopted a doctrinal methodology using a textual analysis of primary and secondary data. The primary sources include Based on the analysis, conclusion was drawn based on logical inference. The primary sources used are statutes and treaties. The secondary sources included journal articles, books and online materials. The paper argued that the basis of the right to exclusivity of any economic zone is sovereignty of a State which extends to the doctrine of permanent sovereignty over natural resources within the territory of the State. This is in addition to the right of the State to economic self-determination. The paper argued further that under international law, approval of the extension of the exclusive economic zone of a State does not represent the acquisition of new maritime area but rather the establishment by credible evidence of the historical maritime territory of the State beyond the 200 nautical miles threshold in international law. Nevertheless, the approval of the extension holds significant legal implications for Nigeria. Nigeria will have to amend her Exclusive Economic Zone Act to reflect the approved extension. Furthermore, there will have to be review of the map of Nigeria and relevant chats to properly integrate the new areas covered. The extension of the jurisdiction of Nigeria over an additional economic zone also holds significant economic potentials for Nigeria. The article concluded by urging Nigeria to maximize the opportunities created by the extension by making necessary and consequential amendments in her national laws.