1 Intellectualism. Vol.7. No. 1. Pp 282-289. 2009. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA) AND RESETTLEMENT SCHEME: Lessons for the Lake Chad Resettlement scheme BY Oruonye Emeka Daniel Ph.D. Department of Geography, Taraba State University, P.M.B. 1167, Jalingo, Taraba State. Nigeria. e-mail: emmyodan@Yahoo.uk, oruonyeemeka@yahoo.com Tel: 07039271480, 0802525 ABSTRACT Despite the fact that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as contained in the official gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, made it compulsory for government at all levels to carry out EIA before embarking on large development project, most government and corporate agencies tend to ignore this important aspect of development plan. This study examines Environmental Impact Assessment and Resettlement and the lessons for the Lake Chad resettlement scheme. Data were generated from fieldwork, interview schedule and secondary materials. The study revealed that since EIA was not undertaken before the resettlement scheme was embarked upon, it has resulted in negative socio-economic impact on the environment in the study areas. These negative impacts are the social cost, which the society pays for not undertaken EIA before the resettlement exercise took place. This study therefore recommends the need to implement the existing framework of EIA in order to ensure that the local people and other interest are effectively represented in the process.