Threats to Niger-Delta Wetlands: A Case Study of Apoi Creek Forest

Abstract

Wetlands are essential subsystem of the general ecosystem with so many functions; like purification and sustenance of ground and surface water resources on earth, and its numerous services that it offers to animal, plant, human (local communities) and the nation’s economy at large. The issue of wetland degradation and wetland loss started when the world was seeing wetlands as unproductive, unhealthy land full of snakes and crocodiles. Niger Delta wetland ecosystem is a very rich and important ecosystem in Nigeria, it harbours some endemic spices both flora and fauna, a hotspot for biodiversity and it is of high economic value for the local communities. This paper reviews that changes have occurred in the study area and the Niger Delta wetlands. The changes were identified to be as a result of human activities (anthropogenic activities) and the ongoing environmental pressure resulting from the large scale oil exploration and exploitation, pipeline installation, urban expansion and agriculture. These were identified as some of the major threats to Apoi creek forest wetland. These findings were obtained after analysing the data obtained which helped to raise awareness that can assist to effectively monitor, protect and conserve the wetland ecosystem.