Benue State University, Makurdi

Effects of Toxic Materials from the Exploration Activities of Transnational Oil Companies on the Environment of the Oil-Endowed States of Nigeria

Izuoma Egeruoh-Adindu*

Abstract

The environment of the Oil-endowed States of Nigeria consists of highly diverse ecosystems that are supportive of numerous species of terrestrial, aquatic fauna, and flora. However, these ecosystems have been contaminated with toxic materials from oil exploration activities by Transnational Oil companies. While much attention is paid to Oil spills as the major pollutant, there are other toxic materials that have negatively impacted the environment of the oil endowed States. These toxic materials have not only endangered human and aquatic lives but have also destroyed arable lands. This article finds that the negative effects of toxic materials from oil exploration activities have resulted in poverty, land, air and water pollution, insecurity, health challenges, low crop yields and food insecurity. The article further finds that though there are in existence legal and institutional frameworks that can address the negative effects of toxic material pollution from oil exploitation activities, however, lack of enforcement of the extant legal frameworks and ineffective administration of the laws by the regulatory institutions have contributed to the incessant pollution of the environment of the oil endowed States with toxic materials. The article concludes that effective enforcement of the extant legal framework by the regulatory Institutions will address this challenge. The article recommends political will, regular capacity building, and adequate funding of regulatory institutions as measures to address the continuous pollution and its effects on the environment of these States. It suggests just transitions to renewable energy sources to ensure environmental justice and also promote sustainable development in the oil endowed States.

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