Integrated Impact Assessment in The Nigerian Niger Delta: Effects of Non-Implementation of Health Interventions

Ndioho, Ibiangake Friday (2024) Integrated Impact Assessment in The Nigerian Niger Delta: Effects of Non-Implementation of Health Interventions. Doctoral thesis (PhD), Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

Global health outcomes have increasingly been in the spotlight, given their association with attaining sustainable economic development. The application of Health Impact Assessment (HIA) stems from acknowledging the broader ‘determinants of health’ as prerequisite factors for enhancing the necessary state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. This research is primarily focused on investigating the level of integration of HIA in integrated impact assessment (IIA) in the Nigerian Niger Delta region. It is aimed at evaluating and improving its use and implementation in the region. The research adopted a constructivist philosophical stance with an explorative multimethod qualitative research strategy, using the most appropriate qualitative method for each phase. Studies 1 and 2 utilised a systematic analytical approach using content analysis to develop an HIA screening tool and health content evaluation tool. The developed tool in Study 1 incorporated considerations for contextual issues of socio-political crisis and project abandonment, while Study 2 outlined the standard requirements for HIA incorporation in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and developed a checklist to guide HIA incorporation. Study 3 involved systematically evaluating completed EIA reports using thematic analysis to identify gaps in practice. Prominent amongst identifiable gaps from the outcome of study three included non-consideration of health equity and inadequate compliance with HIA values. Study 4 involved data triangulation from Studies 1, 2, and 3, with data from semi-structured interviews. Interview samples for Study 4 were purposively selected from identified Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) experts and community members within the study area. Interview data was subsequently analysed using a combination of inductive and deductive thematic analytical processes. Essential aspects of the research outcome that informed the development of a national framework for improved health integration and implementation included - the current inadequate level of health integration and community involvement, the duplication of responsibilities and regulatory conflicts, the monetisation of the EIA process and corruption, and the lack of a unified national guideline for HIA integration in IIA practice within the region. In conclusion, the research recommends fully implementing the proposed framework and the standardisation of impact assessment terminologies amongst HIA and EIA experts.