Oil spill response strategies: A comparative conceptual study between the USA and Nigeria

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive review of oil spill response strategies in the United States and Nigeria, aiming to dissect the effectiveness, challenges, and policy frameworks governing environmental disaster management in the context of oil spills. Through an exhaustive literature review, the paper compares and contrasts the approaches adopted by these two countries, highlighting the interplay of technological, regulatory, and socio-economic factors in shaping their response mechanisms. The United States is portrayed as having a robust, technologically advanced, and well-coordinated response strategy, underpinned by stringent regulatory frameworks and significant investment in research and development. This comprehensive approach facilitates rapid containment and mitigation of spills, minimizing environmental and socio-economic impacts. Conversely, Nigeria’s response strategy is characterized by several challenges, including regulatory loopholes, inadequate enforcement, insufficient technological resources, and a lack of preparedness that exacerbate the consequences of oil spills on the environment and local communities. Key findings emphasize the pivotal role of governance, technological readiness, and stakeholder collaboration in crafting effective oil spill response strategies. The comparative analysis reveals critical gaps in Nigeria’s oil spill response framework and suggests areas for improvement, such as strengthening legislation, enhancing technological capacity, and fostering international collaboration. Concluding, the paper underscores the necessity for policy reforms and strategic investments in Nigeria to elevate its oil spill response capabilities. Drawing insights from the U.S. experience, it advocates for a holistic approach that integrates advanced technologies, effective governance, and community engagement to mitigate the impacts of oil spills. This review contributes to the discourse on environmental management, offering a foundation for future research and policy development aimed at enhancing oil spill response strategies globally.