Keywords
Freshwater Ecosystem
Socioeconomic Impact
Environmental Impact
Community Livelihoods
Article Number
044Abstract
Sand mining in freshwater ecosystems significantly alters sediment composition and water quality, fundamentally shifting the socioeconomic landscape of riparian communities. This research evaluated the impact of socioeconomic factors on sand mining in the freshwater ecosystems of Akpajo, Rumuokparaeli, and Chokocho communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. Using an interpretative research philosophy and the Political Ecology framework, the study investigated the transition of ecosystem services from traditional livelihoods to industrial extraction. Data were collected from 380 respondents through structured questionnaires and field observations, analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The results indicate that prior to intensive mining, these ecosystems provided vital services, including fish farming and clean water supply, which supported local food security. However, current data reveals a stark demographic shift, with 57.89% of the workforce being youths (aged 15–30) driven by unemployment and economic pressure. The RII analysis identifies Food Security and Potable Water as the most degraded services, ranking 1st and 2nd in perceived threat. While sand mining has become a primary income source for 47.37% of respondents, the study finds that the resulting land degradation, loss of aquatic habitats, and displacement of residents outweigh the short-term economic gains. The study concludes that sand mining is driving a "de-development" of host communities and recommends the urgent implementation of sustainable dredging technologies and community-led restoration mandates to safeguard the Niger Delta’s freshwater heritage.References
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