Adverse Impact of Human Activities on Aquatic Ecosystems: Investigating the Environmental Sustainability Perception of Stakeholders in Lagos and Ogun States, Nigeria

Abstract

Environmental risk perception of stakeholders for various human activities is germane to the sustainable development of a society. In urban Africa, rising population rates pose environmental challenges for the management of aquatic resources. Examples of two metropolitan cities in urban Africa are Lagos and Ogun states, Nigeria, with their teeming populations. The proximity of the Lagos lagoon and Ogun River to human settlements predisposes their use as sinks for disposal of wastewaters from potentially polluting activities such as sawmills and livestock processing (abattoirs). This chapter evaluates the environmental risk perception of specific stakeholders in the states whose activities result in potential adverse impact on aquatic ecosystems and associated ecosystem services. Copies of a structured questionnaire were administered to stakeholders at selected anthropogenic sites, i.e. Okobaba Sawmills and Kara Cow Market, in Lagos and Ogun states respectively. At the Okobaba sawmills adjoining the Lagos lagoon, respondents stated that sawdust is the major (84%) waste generated, most (90%) of which is burnt. Over half (51–90%) of the respondents noted that air quality, water quality and aquatic animals are adversely impacted by the sawmill activities. At Kara Cow Market, which adjoins Ogun River, respondents reported that they utilise the river for domestic activities, such as source of drinking water and for washing of cows. Most respondents (70–82%) acknowledged that the river is polluted, wastes are deliberately disposed into the river and wastewater from the abattoir is never treated. It is suggested that stakeholder environmental education, advocacy, risk communication, as well as demand for, and implementation of, evidence-based policies for the management of these ecosystems are crucial steps to be taken in addressing the situation. Further, the planning of human settlements near aquatic ecosystems should be considered alongside the sustainability of aquatic resources and ecosystem services in urban Africa, given the need to support life below water (UN SDG 14).

Appendices

Appendices

1.1 Appendix 1: Environmental Risk Assessment Questionnaire for Stakeholders at Okobaba Sawmills, Lagos

1.2 Appendix 2: Environmental Risk Assessment Questionnaire for Stakeholders at Kara Cow Market, Ogun State, Nigeria