Addressing Environmental Health Problems in Ogoniland through Implementation of United Nations Environmental Program Recommendations: Environmental Management Strategies

Abstract

In August 4 2011, United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) submitted an unprecedented, scientific, groundbreaking Environmental Assessment Report (EAR) of Ogoniland, to the Nigerian government. This was the outcome of a 14–month intensive evaluation of the extent of pollution. It was intended that UNEP’s recommendations would be implemented to restore the devastated environment, on the one hand, and on the other, counteract the numerous environmental health issues that have for decades, plagued Ogoniland. However, five years post EAR, and, despite the seriousness of the situation, no significant resolution has occurred, both on the part of the government, and on the part of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) or Shell. To date, millions of Niger Delta residents, particularly those living in the oil-bearing communities, continue to suffer severe consequences. Although, the assessment was conducted in Ogoniland, other communities in the Niger Delta are also affected. This article explores prevailing issues, using Ogoniland (a microcosm of the Niger Delta) as an example. A multidisciplinary approach for sustainable mitigation of environmental health risks in the Niger Delta is paramount, and Environmental Management tools offer valuable strategies. Adopting UNEP’s recommendations for addressing environmental health problems requires implementing the Environmental Management/Environmental Management System (EM/EMS) model.

Environmental Conflict and United Nations Environment Programme (Unep) Report: An Appraisal of the Clean-Up in Ogoni

“…This will thus enhance the economic well being of the Ogonis. This is because the Ogonis are predominantly farmers and traditional fishers (Yakubu, 2017). The Ogonis as a local community have been faced with displacement, dispossession and exposure to risk (Howitt, 2001).…”

Evaluation of petroleum hydrocarbons contamination in soils and groundwater using electrical resistivity and hydrochemical methods-Case study: Ayetoro, Osogbo southwestern Nigeria

“…Clinton et al (2009) also evaluated, analyzed, and indicated that the total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHCs) in a water sample at the well-head stations, in Niger Delta were above the 10 mg/L tolerance level recommended by the Federal Ministry of Environment in Nigeria. Clinton et al (2009) and Yakubu (2017) described Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons [TPHCs] as the mixture of organic compounds found or derived from crude oil that have the ability to be toxic. These compounds have limited solubility thereby forming individual liquid phases known as non-aqueous phase liquids [NAPLs].…”