A Cursory Review of the Consequences of Human Activities and Land-Use Changes in the Niger Delta

This study discusses the manifestation and consequences of human activities on the Niger Delta ecosystem. The Niger Delta is resource-rich and abundantly blessed with expanse of agricultural/aquatic resources and vast reserves of petroleum hydrocarbon. The delta has played prominent roles in the global economic activities, ranging from slave trade, palm oil business and now hydrocarbon export, spanning more than a century ago. The brunt of human activities resulting from the exploitation of Niger Delta resources, affects the ecosystem. The study was carried out using a mixed scale approach involving literature search, landuse/ land cover change detection using Landsat satellite imageries and sampling and analysis of soils from four representative locations. The magnitude and severity of such effects are contingent not only on natural variables, but also the exploitative activities of man. This study has analysed the interplay of several variables resulting from anthropogenic activities. Information contained in this study is valuable towards understanding and sustainable management of the fragile Niger Delta ecosystem.