TITLE:
Sources of Marine Pollution on Nigerian Coastal Resources: An Overview
AUTHORS:
J. A. Akankali, E. I. Elenwo
KEYWORDS:
Sources, Marine Pollution, Coastal Resources
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Marine Science,
Vol.5 No.2,
April
8,
2015
ABSTRACT: Little is known about the
full impacts of marine litter, especially in the open ocean where there is
almost no information. The ocean is a vital source of nourishment, especially
to the people in the world’s poorest nations. Many depend on fish for their
source of protein; fisheries and aquaculture support the livelihoods of about
540 million people directly or indirectly[1]. Overfishing, loss of biodiversity and possible extinction of
species put stress on these limited resources. Some beaches are already closed
to public because the water is unsuitable for bathing and beach is covered with
litters of plastics, discharge of sewage, agricultural run-off, and discharge
of nutrients and pesticides accounts for approximately 80% of marine pollution[2]. The scenario is not different in
Nigeria as there are reported cases of major industries such as fertilizer and
petrochemical and oil producing companies that have polluted the marine
environment in recent times. Therefore, this paper advocates by way of
education and enlightenment to the populace the myriad of problems associated
with marine pollution in the Nigerian coastal waters. Some suggested solution
includes education, laws and collaboration amongst organization to create a
sustainable marine ecosystem in Nigeria.