AFRICAN SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL JOURNAL

THE IMPACT OF ARTISANAL REFINING ON ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY IN RIVERS STATE

OBAH, PATIENCE WELENMA

January 22, 2026

Citation

AFRICAN SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL JOURNAL , Vol. 14 (2) (2026) , pp. 57-70

Details

ISSN: 978-37889
Published: January 22, 2026
Status: Published

Abstract

This study examines the impact of artisanal refining on environmental security in Rivers
State. The population of the study was 196,780 households in Rivers State. A sample size of
384 was determined from this population using Krejcie and Morgan sampling technique.
Questionnaire and interview were used in data collection and the collected data were
analysed using descriptive statistic, the mean and standard deviation. The result revealed
that artisanal refining affect environmental security in Rivers State. Hence the study
concludes that artisanal refining is responsible for environmental security degradation in
Rivers State. Therefore, the study recommended that Government should encourage oil
companies to take responsibility by establishing environmental impacts and invest in
community development programs for rapid response teams to address health emergencies
related to pollution. They should develop disaster preparedness plans for communities
affected by pollution from illegal refining. Invest in research to develop innovative solutions
for pollution control and health improvement. Government and oil companies should
establish local emergency response units specifically trained to handle explosions and fires
from artisanal refineries, ensuring they have the necessary tools and resources to respond
quickly and effectively to ensure environmental security in Rivers State.