PERCEPTION OF ARTISANAL FISHERS ON THE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS ON THE BLUE ECONOMY IN THE NIGER DELTA REGION OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates artisanal fishers' perceptions of oil and gas operations' impact on the blue economy in Nigeria's Niger Delta. It posits that unsustainable practices have led to significant environmental degradation in the region. The objectives include analysing fisheries activities, such as illegal and overfishing, and assessing the potential consequences of oil and gas operations on environmental sustainability. A sample of 400 respondents was selected using stratified sampling, with data collected via questionnaires and analysed using tables, arithmetic mean, and linear regression models. Results indicate a significant relationship between blue economy practices and environmental sustainability. The study concludes that fishing activities and oil extraction significantly affect sustainability. Recommendations include governance reform to tackle illegal fishing and overfishing, education on modern harvesting methods, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations in the maritime and oil industries.