Oil Spillage Monitoring in Nigeria and the Role of Remote Sensing - An Overview

Abstract

Oil spillage poses a persistent challenge in Nigeria most especially in oil-rich Niger Delta region, necessitating effective monitoring and mitigation measures. This study provides an overview of oil spill monitoring in Nigeria, emphasizing the pivotal role of remote sensing technology. Leveraging data from the NOSDRA Oil Spill Monitoring website, spanning 2016 to 2020, variations in spill occurrences among oil companies are analyzed. In 2016, a total of 42,741.25 barrels were spilled across 689 incidents, with NPDC emerging as the top spillage contributor. Similarly, 2017 witnessed 35,076.62 barrels spilled across 604 incidents, with NPDC and SPDC maintaining dominance. The trend continued in 2018, with SPDC recording the highest volume of spills among the top six contributing companies. However, in 2019, spillage increased, led by SPDC, followed closely by Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited and Aiteo. Conversely, 2020 saw a decrease in spillage, albeit SPDC retained its lead. These findings underscore the critical need for enhanced monitoring and regulatory enforcement to mitigate the environmental and socio-economic impacts of oil spills in Nigeria. However, proactive measures are needed to strengthen regulatory oversight, improve spill response capabilities, and promote transparency and accountability within the petroleum industry.