ABSTRACT
The mapping of oil spill events holds paramount importance in environmental science and water resources engineering due to its global significance and recurring nature. In particular, the Niger Delta region of Nigeria has been significantly impacted by numerous reported oil spill incidents, highlighting the urgent need to identify their origins, extent, and volume. This research aims to address this necessity by conducting a comprehensive geospatial distribution mapping of oil spill incidents across the Niger Delta Region with specific goal of providing information for remediation purpose. The methodology involves an on-site visit to incident locations of spill where coordinates were acquired using a handheld GNSS receiver and the extent of spill coverage were delineated. Data base of incidences were aggregated into the geo-database for data manipulation, analysis, and generation of various outputs as required within the ARGIS 10.4 geospatial software environment. Furthermore, a specialized Excel template in alignment with USGS recommendations, was utilized for final spill volume computation. The results of the study revealed the distribution of oil spill points across nine states within the Niger Delta region. Significant variations were observed in terms of spill numbers, affected areas, and volumes. Notably, Imo State exhibited the fewest spill points (3), whereas Rivers State had the highest number (111). Across all states, a total of 189 spill points were identified, impacting 11,754,558 square meters, with a cumulative spill volume of 3,309,150 barrels. This assessment highlights the existence of regional disparities in oil spill occurrences across the Niger Delta region, providing crucial insights into the environmental impacts experienced by each state. These findings underscore the importance of environmental conservation efforts and the strategic planning of water resources engineering initiatives in the region. Based on the study findings, recommendations are made to inform targeted interventions and policy decisions aimed at fostering a more resilient and sustainable response to oil spills in the Niger Delta Region. These recommendations have the potential to enhance environmental management practices and mitigate the adverse effects of oil pollution on both ecosystems and communities within the region.
