ASSESSMENT OF COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT IN ILAJE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Over the years the issue of coastal zone development has been of great concern especially in the face of global climate change. This research aimed at assessing the coastal issues in Ilaje coastal area with a view to develop an integrated coastal zone management for the Ilaje coastal region for the purpose of achieving a sustainable coastal environment. A case study approach was adopted for this study. This research used the indicators of ICZM to access the activities of relevant agencies in Ilaje coastal management and conservation. Interview guides were used to obtain information from agencies. Using the suitability criteria, and pragmatic criteria, the agencies selected for this research are: Ondo State Ministry of Environment (Igbokoda Town Planning Area Office), Niger Delta Development Commission Igbokoda (NDDC), Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). A reconnaissance survey was carried out to identify the organizations involved in managing the Ilaje coastal zone. In this study, it was observed that Ilaje coastal communities are being faced with recurring coastal issues which have affected the livelihood of the inhabitants and the sustainability of the coast. This study also gave information on the extent of compliance of Ilaje coast related agencies when compared with the global standards/best practices (strategic planning, operational planning, statutory basis/legal backing for coastal management plans, requirement for coastal management plans, and degree of plan integration) using performance indicators and scoring guidepost which was used in allocating scores to each coastal partnership (agency). The scores were analysed and the study revealed that there is no coastal management plan for Ilaje Coast as a whole and that majority of these agencies did not score up to the standard achievement mark. An integrated coastal management framework is suggested for the management of the Ilaje coastal region.