Niger Delta Research Articles

Ecological Implications of Non-Standardized Crude Oil Refining Operation on Blue Carbon Resources in the Niger Delta

This study, through a review of existing literature, investigates the implications of non-standardized refineries on the mangrove ecosystem in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The Niger Delta region is home to one of the largest blue carbon sinks and mangrove ecosystems in the world, providing important habitat for a diverse range of species and playing a crucial role in carbon sequestration. However, the presence of non-standardized refineries in the area has raised concerns about the potential environmental impacts on the delicate ecosystem. These refineries often operate without regulations or oversight, leading to pollution of waterways, destruction of habitat for various species, and disruption of the natural food chain. This study examines the specific ways in which these non-standardized refineries are affecting the mangrove ecosystem and explores potential solutions to mitigate their negative effects. Findings from this study show that non-standardized refineries in the region are significant sources of pollution, leading to mangrove destruction. The study revealed the environmental issues, risks, and ecological significance of mangroves in the Niger Delta. The study emphasized the urgent need for better regulation and enforcement to protect these important mangrove habitats from further destruction. Finally, the study concluded that protecting the mangroves of the Niger Delta is essential for the overall health of the region.

Characterization and identification of long-chain hydrocarbon-degrading bacterial communities in long-term chronically polluted soil in Ogoniland: an integrated approach using culture-dependent and independent methods.

Escalating oil consumption has resulted in an increase in accidental spills of petroleum hydrocarbons, causing severe environmental degradation, notably in vulnerable regions like the Niger Delta. Complex mixture of these hydrocarbons particularly long-chain alkanes presents unique challenges in restoration of polluted environment due to their chemical properties. This study aimed to investigate the long-chain hydrocarbon-degrading bacterial communities within long-term chronically polluted soil in Ogoniland, by utilizing both traditional cultivation methods and modern culture-independent techniques. Results revealed that surface-polluted soil (SPS) and subsurface soil (SPSS) exhibit significantly higher total organic carbon (TOC) ranging from 5.64 to 5.06% and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) levels ranging from 36,775ppm to 14,087ppm, compared to unpolluted soil (UPS) with 1.97% TOC and 479ppm TPH, respectively. Analysis of carbon chain lengths reveals the prevalence of longer-chain alkanes (C20-28) in the surface soil. Culture-dependent methods, utilizing crude oil enrichment (COE) and paraffin wax enrichment (PWE), yield 47 bacterial isolates subjected to a long-chain alkane degradation assay. Twelve bacterial strains demonstrate significant degradation abilities across all enriched media. Three bacterial members, namely Pseudomonas sp. (almA), Marinomonas sp. (almA), and Alteromonas (ladA), exhibit genes responsible for long-chain alkane degradation, demonstrating efficiency between 50 and 80%. Culture-independent analysis reveals that surface SPS samples exhibit greater species richness and diversity compared to subsurface SPSS samples. Proteobacteria dominates as the phylum in both soil sample types, ranging from 22.23 to 82.61%, with Firmicutes (0.2-2.22%), Actinobacteria (0.4-3.02%), and Acidobacteria (0.1-3.53%) also prevalent. Bacterial profiles at genus level revealed that distinct variations among bacterial populations between SPS and SPSS samples comprising number of hydrocarbon degraders and the functional predictions also highlight the presence of potential catabolic genes (nahAa, adh2, and cpnA) in the polluted soil. However, culture-dependent analysis only captured a few of the dominant members found in culture-independent analysis, implying that more specialized media or environments are needed to isolate more bacterial members. The findings from this study contribute valuable information to ecological and biotechnological aspects, aiding in the development of more effective bioremediation applications for restoring oil-contaminated environments.

Ambient Air Pollution and Chronic kidney disease risk in Deltan communities: A Policy Brief, 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a persistent, devastating, yet neglected, non-communicable disease in developing and emerging countries. National, regional, and international agencies’ communications and reports on non-communicable diseases intentionally or non-intentionally do not feature CKD. The traditional risk factors for CKD, such as hypertension and diabetes, which have received relatively ample attention, do not sufficiently explain the high burden of CKD in these countries. Ambient air pollution is an emerging significant environmental risk factor for CKD; however, epidemiological data and evidence are lacking for susceptible populations in developing countries. The Niger Delta region of Nigeria is a petrochemical hub known for environmental degradation, including air pollution, and thus, serves as a good case study for investigating the association between air pollution and CKD. This brief is based on the results of a mixed-methods study conducted in four communities situated near an oil and gas refinery in Warri, Nigeria. Air pollutant concentrations measured in partnership with citizen scientists showed that all except one air pollutant (ozone) exceeded the WHO acceptable limits in all four communities. The overall prevalence of CKD was high (12.3%) but even higher (18%) in a socially deprived semi-urban community closest to the oil refinery. Hypertension, diabetes, other behavioral risk factors, and exposures associated with CKD were prevalent among the inhabitants of the four communities. However, public environmental health information and education are lacking. A multifaceted approach is required to mitigate air pollution and the associated health risks in the state. Public inclusion is strongly recommended for the planning and implementation of future interventions. Kidney disease prevention and treatment should be emphasized in health policies and insurance schemes.

The Groaning of Creation (Romans 8:19-22) and the Ecological Devastation of the Niger Delta, Nigeria

This work studied Romans 8:19-22 with a focus on the frustration human actions bring to the non-material creation which makes it yearn to be liberated from them and tries to see its relationship to the ecological devastation in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Using the historical-critical method of exegesis and comparative and contextual methods it maintains that there is a relationship between the image of creation painted in Rom 8:19-22 and the ecological situation in the Niger Delta. It holds that since humans played a major role in rendering the non-material creation incapable of realising its natural goal, humans also have a role to play in its restoration. It further states that since humanity through the Christ event has been reconciled to God and looks forward to the realisation of the fullness of such reconciliation, reconciled humans should relate to the rest of creation in such a way that it will also experience the effect of this reconciliation as it awaits its fullness in future. The paper contributes to the discussion on environmental realised eschatology. Keywords: Creation, Groaning, Niger Delta, Environment, Pollution

DETERMINATION OF SPECIFIC HEAT CAPACITIES OF LIQUIDS FROM SOME CONSUMABLE ITEMS

This study was done to obtain the Specific Heat Capacities (SHC) of some liquids from some intake items (they are consumed widely in Niger Delta, Nigeria). These items are vegetables (Afang leaf, Pumpkin leaf, Bitter leaf, Scent leaf, Water leaf), fruits (Orange, Cucumber, Pineapple, Watermelon, Lime) and juice (Ribena, Chivita Exotic, Chivita Happy Hour, Chivita Active and Five Alive). Calorimeter was used and Method of mixtures was adopted for this finding. Measured parameters were obtained in the laboratory. Microsoft Excel was used for other analyses and computation of results.

Water Resources, Pollution, Integrated Management and Practices in Nigeria – An Overview

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Nigeria’s water landscape, focusing on its abundant surface and underground water sources and the agencies responsible for water resources development and management. Findings reveals that the country boasts vast freshwater reserves, encompassing surface and groundwater, intricate river drainage systems, numerous dams, and managed aquifer formations, primarily overseen by River Basin Development Authorities. Despite these resources, Nigeria faces severe pollution challenges, especially in the Niger Delta, resulting from oil-related activities and causing environmental degradation, health crises, and enduring ecosystem consequences. Approximately 13 million barrels of oil spills have adversely impacted coastal wetlands, mangroves, and agricultural lands. Elevated levels of heavy metal pollution, exceeding recommended guidelines, pose significant threats to public health, emphasizing the lasting impact of persistent oil spillage on fishery production and aquatic organisms. River Basin Development Authorities have made substantial contributions, challenges persist in catchment management and the indiscriminate disposal of hazardous substances. The absence of effective environmental policies necessitates urgent, coordinated action from federal and state governments. Nigeria must prioritize integrated water management practices to strike a delicate balance between resource utilization and preservation for the benefit of current and future generations. This manuscript relies on secondary sources, utilizing key search terms such as “water resources in Nigeria,” “water pollution in Nigeria,” “water supply and demand in Nigeria,” “water management in Nigeria,” and “integrated water practices in Nigeria.” Data were sourced from reputable institutions, including the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, The World Bank, United Nations Environmental Protection (UNEP), USAID’s Sustainable Water Partnership, and various scientific publications, ensuring the reliability of the presented data.

Assessing Tuberculosis and Risk Factors: Population Study in Rivers State, Nigeria's Niger Delta Region, Nigeria

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), an infectious airborne bacterium primarily impacting the lungs and instigating a chronic inflammatory response, persists as an enduring menace.    This study aims to evaluate the interplay between MTB infection and associated risk factors in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study involved 392 participants from three local government areas (LGAs): Eleme, Obio/Akpor, and PHALGA. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographics variables and associated risk factors. A stratified random sampling method was employed. Statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation coefficient, was performed using SPSS version 25. Correlation analysis of socio-demographic variables revealed no significant associations with MTB, as indicated by non-significant p-values of (p=0.27), (p=0.83), (p=0.42), (p=0.35), (p=0.49), (p=0.28) for age, sex, education, occupation, marital status and geographical area respectively. However, significant positive weak correlations emerged between MTB infection and cough (p=0.00), hepatitis (p=0.01), coughing blood (p=0.00), and fever (p=0.00). Conversely, family TB history (p=0.93), cough lasting 2 weeks (p=0.84), weight loss (p=0.19), contact with a person who has been coughing for 2 weeks (p=0.93), and alcohol consumption (p=0.55) did not show significant associations. While demographic characteristics alone may not be strong predictors of MTB infection, this study highlights the complex interplay between various risk factors Addressing these risk factors through targeted interventions and raising awareness can contribute to reducing the TB burden in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.

Environmental Racism in Nigeria’s Niger Delta: An Ethical Appraisal

Nigeria’s Niger Delta is plagued by serious environmental problems. These environmental problems include oil spillage, pollution, deforestation, biodiversity destruction, and so forth. Many of the environmental problems in the Niger Delta arise from the anthropogenic activities of multinational oil companies. While these environmental problems, which have caused widespread environmental degradation, are well discussed in light of environmental justice, the reality—that these problems are also precipitated by environmental racist attitudes and practices—is not receiving just attention. This article argues that the environmental problems in the Niger Delta should be seen from the perspective of environmental racism. Through critical hermeneutics and analytic methods, the article shows that what is taking place in the Niger Delta can be called environmental racism. The Niger Delta peoples and cultures have disproportionately suffered from the burden and effects of oil exploration and exploitation activities. Many practices taking place in the Niger Delta, such as gas flaring, use of obsolete oil equipment, and so forth, will not be tolerated in Western countries where the headquarters of multinational oil companies are located. The article finds that unacceptable levels of environmental racism are taking place in the Niger Delta. The article concludes that there is a need to promote environmental justice and mitigate the environmental problems in the Niger Delta.

Polybrominated diphenyl ether contamination in sediments from rivers in the western Niger Delta of Nigeria

This study investigated the concentrations of 39 polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners in sediments from three rivers in the western Niger Delta of Nigeria that have been affected by pollution from urbanization and industrial activities. The Σ39 PBDE concentrations in sediments from these rivers ranged from 0.29 to 95.5, 5.15 to 121, and 0.73 to 66.1 ng g−1 for the Afiesere (AR), Edor (ER), and Okpare Rivers (OR), respectively. The homologue distribution patterns indicated the prominence of tetra- and penta-BDE congeners in sediments from these rivers. The ecological risk assessment results showed that the penta-BDEs were the primary source of risk to sediment-dwelling organisms in these rivers. However, the human health risk assessment indicated negligible risks for exposure of both adults and children to PBDEs in these sediments. The source apportionment suggests that the PBDE contamination in these river sediments was derived from long-distance migration, debromination of highly brominated congeners, and commercial penta-BDEs. These results reflect the use of penta-BDE formulations in this region rather than octa- and deca-BDE formulations.

Removal of Heavy Metals from Produced Water Using Activated Carbon from Coconut Husk Enhanced with Graphene Oxide

Produced water, which contains a high amount of hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and other pollutants, is one of the major waste streams in the Niger Delta's oilfields and refineries. The treatment of produced water can be done in a variety of ways, including physical (desalination, membrane separation and, adsorption), chemical (precipitation, absorption and, oxidation), and biological. The heavy metals and contaminants in the wastewater pose a threat to living creatures and the environment. This research evaluates the effectiveness of Activated carbon modified with Graphene oxide, a new thriving material for researchers derived from graphite, to improve the adsorption capacity of coconut husk using the “wet impregnation technique” for the removal of heavy metals from produced water. Batch adsorption of the pollutant was studied for the Activated Carbon, and the modified activated carbon (AC-GO) at a time intervals, for each of the adsorbents. The removal efficiency of the adsorbent was found to increase proportionately from 6.71% to 92.96%, 3.01% to 52.23% and 51.28% to 67.77% for Cd, Ni and Pb respectively with increasing contact time. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analysed the treated produced water samples. The adsorption isotherms and kinetics studies of the adsorbed metals were evaluated and correlated with empirical models.

Link between Oil Pollution and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Oil exploration in the Niger Delta has led to severe environmental pollution. This study investigates the association between exposure to crude oil and adverse pregnancy outcomes. 
 Study Design:  This was a comparative cross-sectional study of the differences in adverse pregnancy outcomes of people living in heavily oil polluted and non-polluted communities
 Place and Duration of Study: Kegbara Dere (K-Dere), a rural Community in Ogoniland, Gokana Local Government Area, Rivers State and Obohia community in Ndoki kingdom, Ukwa East LGA of Abia state between June 2022 and Jan 2023.
 Methodology: We recruited 900 study participants (450 each from the crude oil impacted and the non-oil polluted communities) using multi-stage random sampling. Questionnaires were used to collect data on socio-demographics and adverse pregnancy history by case definitions using the adapted WHO indirect sisterhood method of maternal mortality estimate. Data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Differences in proportions were compared using Chi Square test. The association between living in an oil polluted community or exposure to crude oil pollutants and adverse pregnancy outcomes was determined using crude odds ratio. Confidence intervals were determined at 95% level and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.
 Results: Pregnant women in the polluted community experienced a significantly higher prevalence of adverse outcomes, including stillbirth, abortion, and birth defects. The risk of experiencing an adverse pregnancy outcome was 30 times higher in the polluted area.
 Conclusion: This study suggests a strong link between oil pollution and pregnancy complications. Further research with robust designs is needed to confirm causality. Environmental cleanup and protective measures for pregnant women are crucial in these areas.

Case Study: Innovative Sand-Screen Technology Resolves Offshore Nigeria Water-Injection Issues

_ During continuous injection, reservoir solids usually remain within the reservoir. However, prolonged or abrupt well shut ins can trigger intense transient flow phenomena like water hammer, backflow, and crossflow, causing fines and matrix sands to migrate and accumulate in the wellbore (SPE 187103). As a result, the accumulation of debris can markedly reduce structural integrity and the overall long-term viability of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) from the injection wells. This issue had become particularly evident in an offshore field situated in the southern region of the Niger Delta. Over time, buildup in the well led to a substantial decrease in injection rates, which had significantly shortened the operational lifespan of the wells to just a few years at the anticipated injection rates. Various remediation technologies were attempted, such as tubing-installed valve and backflow-restrictor technology but both proved ineffective in resolving annular-flow and crossflow issues. To prevent potentially expensive and complex interventions, sidetracking, or wellbore abandonment, further analyses by the operator, SNEPCo, concluded that an effective solution necessitated deployment as close to the sandface within the injector wells as possible. The Cascade system, a check-valve system developed by TAQA Well Completions (formerly Tendeka), was then successfully deployed in three wells to maintain the required injection volumes for efficient pressure maintenance and reservoir sweep. Non-Return Valve Screen Technology Establishing a reliable flow-control system for the lower completion requires engineering the check-valve components to seamlessly integrate within the sand-control screens for deployment across multiple zones of the injection tubing. The non-return valve (NRV) employs a three-component design comprising a valve body, valve insert, and ball. Ball check valves are installed on the screen base pipe under a shroud that allows the injection of fluid into the reservoir and prevents any backflow from the reservoir during shut ins. The system features a flow-control check valve integrated within traditional sand screens that do not alter completion geometry (Fig. 1). With a metal-to-metal seal, it essentially isolates fluid in the completion annulus and locks injection water into the formation. The NRV has been designed to handle a variety of well conditions including erosion, plugging, temperature, and repeated checking cycles. All flow-control device components are manufactured with high-alloy stainless steel and tungsten carbide components to resist tortuous downhole conditions for up to 15 years. Developed in 2018, more than 2,000 of the valves have already been successfully installed in several wells globally. As this new sand-control technology can autonomously and immediately isolate the reservoir from the wellbore during shut ins, the technology offers additional benefits. - Nonintrusive nature for intervention tools - Unhindered access to the lower completion sandface during injection and intervention - Durability throughout the well’s operational life - Compatibility with openhole standalone screens, gravel- pack completions, direct wrap or metal mesh screens - Cost-effectiveness compared to other options

Investigation of a Cathodic Protection Configuration for the Steel Casing Pipes in Reinforced Concrete Bridge in the Niger Delta

This paper details the Design of a Cathodic Protection System on the steel casing pipes of the 60m reinforced concrete bridge project in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Galvanic anode cathodic protection system was provided for the submerged steel support piles on the newly reinforced concrete bridge to ensure adequate corrosion protection of the structures. A total of fifty-six (56) Aluminum Anodes (32 kg) were used. Two of the Aluminum anodes were installed on each of the twenty-eight (28) steel casing piles. The anode installation was achieved by means of clamping at the predetermined water depth of 37.2 m with purpose made carbon steel clamps. The bonding of the anode to the pile structure to make electrical contact was achieved through welding of the pre-installed anode steel core extension bar against the steel pile at the water splash zone area of the river. A pre- and post-installation test and survey activities were conducted on each of the steel piles to ascertain the integrity of the installation and degree of corrosion protection of the steel casing piles. The field test and measurement results indicated mean values of open circuit potential of 0.600 Volts and polarized corrosion potential of 0.850 Volts. The recorded corrosion potential for the installed cathodic protection system confirmed adequate corrosion protection for ten (10) years from anode life for the steel casing supports of the 60 m reinforced concrete bridge.

Assessment of Blood Gas Pattern amongst Artisanal Refinery Operators in Rivers State, Nigeria

Some identified setbacks of the legitimate and illegitimate explorations/exploitations of crude oil and its derivatives in the Niger Delta are degraded environment, weak economy, and deteriorating health of the populace. Therefore, the current study evaluated the effect of artisanal refinery operation on respiratory blood gases and renal functions of its workers in Rivers State. As a cross-sectional investigation with sparse population, the multistage sampling technique (including purposive and snowball tools) was adopted to recruit 203 (including 120 operators of artisanal refinery―OAR-actively exposed and 83 non-OAR- actively exposed) willing and apparently healthy male and female adult subjects. Following receipt of ethical approval and consent, five milliliter of blood was taken from each subject from their antecubital vein after sterilizing the portion of the cubital fossa. The sample was then put into plain sample bottle and centrifuged to recover serum. Thereafter, the automated blood gas analyzer was used to measure the arterial blood gases of the subjects. The result showed marked (P<0.05) reductions in the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) and oxygen saturation (SO2) levels in artisanal refinery operators (actively exposed) when compared to that of the passively-exposed subjects. Again, there were marked (P<0.05) elevations in the plasma pH and bicarbonate ions (HCO-3) levels in the actively exposed subjects compared to their passively-exposed counterparts. In conclusion, there could be adverse impact on respiratory blood gases and incidences of metabolic alkalosis over chronic exposures to the OAR activities.

Optimization of drilling design at different well depths with respect to specific energy

Drilling operations cost millions of Dollars and its success depend largely on some key parameters. Some of these parameters include wait on bit (WOB), rate of penetration (ROP), revolution per minute (RPM) and specific energy, also known as specific mechanic energy. In the design of the drilling program, keen interest must be paid to their variation, else, drilling problems which will lead to non-productive time will ensue. Therefore, this study focused on the optimization of bit design through selection of the bit with lowest specific energy possible to reduce drilling cost and improve efficiency via the consideration of critical parameters such as WOB, ROP drilling cost per foot and specific energy (Mechanical specific energy). In this study, data were collected from 5 wells – ASSA North 004, ASSA North 005, ASSA North 006, Gbetiokun 7 and Benisede, all in Niger Delta. Specific energy was computed using mechanic energy and specific energy relations while the cost optimization was done using drilling cost relation. These data were carefully analyzed and the results of specific energy for the five wells selected wells were obtained. The values of the specific energy at desired depths were used to track the performance of drill bits at that depth. The bit used for ASSA North 005 was found to be most suitable as it maintained lowest specific energy for different depths. The study therefore gave an insight into the importance of specific energy of the drill bit while carry out bit selection for an efficient and cost-effective drilling operation. The bit used for the drilling of ASSA North well was selected because it has the minimum specific energy.

Effect of charcoal and spent engine oil on some growth indices of <i>Rhizophora racemosa</i> g. Mayer grown in garden soil

This study investigated the effect of charcoal and spent engine oil on some growth indices of mangrove seedlings Rhizophora racemose G. Mayer grown in garden soil. The aim was to discover means of improving mangrove nursery growth and survival in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria. Rhizophora racemose was planted in garden soil amended with four different treatments: C (Garden soil only), PC (Garden soil + Charcoal), PCSEO (Garden soil + Charcoal + 6% Spent engine oil), and SSEO (Garden soil + 6% Spent engine oil), with three replicates each and randomized complete block design was adopted for the study. The effect of these treatments was monitored biweekly on some growth indices – plant height, leaf area, leaf length, number of leaves and stem girth, except for root length, number of roots, fresh weight, dry weight and chlorophyll content of R. racemosa which were obtained at 18th week after planting. The study revealed that PC treatment had the highest values for plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight, plant girth, root length when compared to other treatments (C, PCSEO and SSEO) while SSEO recorded the least values. Among the treatments, there were significant differences in the plant height, fresh weight and root length of R. racemosa at P = 0.05. The garden soil amended with charcoal improved the performance of R. racemosa than in spent engine oil alone (PC > PCSEO > SSEO). This could be attributed to the presence of heavy metals in spent engine oil. Again, the charcoal amended soil had higher values for growth indices when compared with the control (C) treatment. This suggest that charcoal has the potency of improving garden soil fertility, plant survival and productivity. Therefore, charcoal could be beneficial in environmental conservation, restoration of endangered forest especially the mangroves in the Niger Delta polluted with crude oil. The study recommends that, charcoal should be incorporated in reforestation and afforestation approaches of mangrove forests.

Paleocene – Late Oligocene dinoflagellate cysts biostratigraphy, onshore Niger Delta

A new biostratigraphic biozonation for the Paleocene to Late Oligocene succession of the onshore Niger Delta has been developed based on the identification of significant stratigraphic dinoflagellate cyst events. This study is aimed at applying rarely used dinoflagellate cysts events in dating, correlating and inferring the paleoenvironment of penetrated sedimentary successions in the studied area. Palynological processing and analysis were carried out on two hundred and twenty ditch cutting samples recovered from two exploration wells (BN-1 and FJ-1) located in the Greater Ughelli and Northern Depobelts of the onshore Niger Delta respectively. Abundant and diverse dinoflagellate cysts recovered included marker Peridinales species Apectodinium sp., Palaeocystodinium australinum, and Gonyaulacales such as Areosphaeridium arcuatum, Cordosphaeridium gracile, Tuberculodinium vancampoae, Polysphaeridium zoharyi and Hystrichokolpoma rigaudiae. Three dinoflagellate cysts Palynological Zones - DPZ 100 (Early to Late Paleocene), DPZ 200 (Early to Late Eocene) and DPZ 300 (Late Eocene to Late Oligocene) are proposed herein. The biozones were subdivided into ten subzones based on the Top occurrence, Quantitative Tops and Quantitative base as well as ACME events of dinoflagellate cysts marker taxa which are used to date the rock sequence to be Paleocene to Late Oligocene. Abundant and diverse shallow outer neritic to inner neritic dinoflagellate cysts are identified from thick grey soft shales at the lower section of the studied wells. The upper section show significant reduction in dinocysts assemblage dominated by inner (coastal) neritic taxa. This dinocysts occurrence and distribution suggests inner (coastal) neritic paleoenvironment at the upper sections which deepened into shallow outer neritic conditions at the lower intervals of the studied wells. The thick brown to grey shales at the lower section and the medium to fine grained, moderately well sorted sandstone interbeds at the middle section of the studied wells are interpreted to be potential source and reservoir rocks respectively. These datasets are useful for correlating possible hydrocarbon source rocks and potential reservoir carrier beds in the Gulf of Guinea.

Hazard Identification and Potential Risk Analysis of Toxic Metals in Redbelly Tilapia (Coptodon zillii) Consumed and Surface Water from the Niger Delta Estuary

Anthropogenic activities have caused toxic metals to escalate, polluting rivers, and accumulating in water, sediments, and fish. This harms aquatic ecosystems and has enduring impacts on humans and aquatic life. The study aimed to assess the accumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Cd, and Zn) in Redbelly tilapia (Coptodon zillii) and water obtained from three sampling stations along Atuka Creek which is a crude oil-contaminated site in a southern creek in Nigeria. The investigation further intends to evaluate potential health risks linked to the consumption of C. zillii and to analyze the pollution and productivity levels of the corresponding aquatic ecosystem. The results show significant variations in heavy metal concentrations across stations, with Station 1 exhibiting the highest contamination levels attributed to its proximity to pollution sources. The fish from Station 1 revealed elevated levels of contamination, surpassing recommended limits for Pb, Fe, Ni, and Zn. Calculations of chronic daily intake (CDI) values indicate potential health risks for both adults and children, particularly in Stations 1 and 2. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values surpassed safe limits in these stations, suggesting non-carcinogenic health risks linked to fish consumption and swimming. Moreover, lifetime cancer risk (ILCR and TLCR) assessments revealed an augmented risk of cancer, especially in Stations 1 and 2. These findings emphasize the need for stern pollution control measures, regulations, and remediation strategies to mitigate heavy metal contamination, ensure water quality, and safeguard public health in southern Nigerian communities.

Evaluation of the Teaching Practice Programme of Niger Delta University, Wilberfore Island Bayelsa State, Nigeria

The study evaluated the teaching practice programme of the Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study was guided by three objectives which focused on the evaluation of the orientation, institutional support, and supervisory components of the programme. The study was further guided by the CIPP evaluation model of Stufflebeam (2003). The population of the study comprised of all students who enrolled and participated in the teaching practice programme at the Niger Delta University during the 2019/2020 academic session. From this population, 85 students were used as the sample of the study. The sample was drawn using the convenience sampling technique. A researcher-developed instrument was used for data collection, which was titled Evaluation of Teaching Practice Inventory (ETPI). Data analysis for the study was done using mean and standard deviation. Result revealed that orientation programme and institutional support were considered not adequate, while supervision was considered very adequate. Based on the results, it was recommended that the content of the teaching practice orientation programme should be enhanced to reflect current teaching methodologies, including classroom management techniques, lesson planning strategies, and student assessment methods.

An Appraisal of the Social- Legal Dynamics of Conflicts in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

The peculiar position and significance of the Niger Delta region to the economic and political stability of Nigeria is self-evident. As the region with the largest deposit of crude oil and gas which is the mainstay of the economy, the Niger Delta necessarily occupies a central place in the economic destiny of the country. It is pedestrian that the exploration and exploitation of crude oil is now a common phenomenon in the area and the presence of numerous oil locations and gas flare points all over the region is a clear confirmation of the prevalence of oil related activities in the Niger Delta. This paper examines the various types and causes of conflicts pervading the Niger Delta Region till date and notes that unless there is equitable distribution of the proceeds of the petroleum sector and a buy-in of the relevant stakeholders, the drivers of the conflict ravaging the region will continue to thrive.