Posted: June 29th, 2023
ANALYSES OF THE IMPACTS OF MARITIME POLLUTION ON MARINE ENVIRONMENT
ANALYSES OF THE IMPACTS OF MARITIME POLLUTION ON MARINE ENVIRONMENT: CASE STUDY OF NIGER DELTA REGION, NIGERIA
The Niger Delta region in Nigeria has experienced severe environmental degradation due to maritime pollution from oil exploration and exploitation activities in the region (Nwilo & Badejo, 2006). As one of the most important wetland and coastal regions in Africa, the Niger Delta plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy through oil and gas exports, fisheries, and agriculture. However, oil spills, gas flaring, and waste discharge have contaminated vast areas of land and coastal waters, destroying ecosystems and livelihoods in the region (Ibaba et al., 2012). This paper analyzes the impacts of maritime pollution on the marine environment in the Niger Delta through a review of existing literature and data. The key impacts discussed include water, sediment, and air pollution, destruction of mangroves and fisheries, as well as associated health and socio-economic consequences. Recommendations are provided on improved regulatory frameworks and remediation approaches to mitigate pollution and restore the degraded marine environment in the Niger Delta region.
Water and Sediment Pollution