Understanding the factors constraining the implementation of watershed management in Nigeria

This paper investigates the factors constraining the implementation of watershed management in Nigeria. A case study of two river basins was analysed using institutional theory as a lens. Findings revealed that regulative, normative and cognitive elements of institutions were responsible for the inability of the RBDAs to implement watershed management. To improve implementation, the paper suggests the need for legislative reform. The reform should define and illustrate how to operationalise watershed management. The findings of this paper offer useful lessons at both policy and practice domain to those other countries wishing to realise sustainable watershed management.