Environmental and Socioeconomic Impacts of Pipeline Transport Interdiction in Niger Delta, Nigeria

Pipelines have historically served as the most cost-effective means of transporting crude oil to production and distribution facilities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. However, frequent interdictions have disrupted oil flow, resulting in significant environmental degradation and reduced government revenue. This study evaluates the economic and environmental impacts of pipeline interdiction in the region. Data from the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) were analyzed using Kernel Density Estimation within a Geographic Information System (GIS) to map the spatial distribution of oil spills. A literature review was conducted to contextualize the historical, socioeconomic, and ecological consequences of pipeline interdictions. Additionally, soil samples were collected from impacted (IMP), remediated (RS), and control (CS) sites to assess hydrocarbon contamination. Results indicate that total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations ranged from 17.27–58.36 mg/kg in IMP and 11.73–50.78 mg/kg in RS soils, significantly higher than the 0.68 mg/kg in CS. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were 0.43–77.54 mg/kg (IMP), 0.42–10.65 mg/kg (RS), and 0.49 mg/kg (CS), exceeding regulatory limits set by the Department of Petroleum Resources, Nigeria. BTEX concentrations were 0.02–0.38 mg/kg (IMP), 0.01–2.7 mg/kg (RS), and 0.01 mg/kg (CS). The findings reveal that pipeline interdiction not only contaminates the environment but also threatens local livelihoods and national economic stability. Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta states were identified as oil spill hotspots, underscoring the urgent need for improved pipeline security, environmental monitoring, and remediation strategies.