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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Environmental impact analysis of oil and gas operations in Nigeria: Implications for sustainable operational strategies of international firms
Authors
Chukwuyem Precious Mormah
Abstract
Environmental impact analysis of oil and gas
operations in Nigeria has become a critical issue in sustainability discourse
due to the extensive ecological degradation, social disruption, and health
risks associated with petroleum activities in the Niger Delta. Despite the
sector’s significant contribution to national revenue since the discovery of
oil in Oloibiri in 1956, persistent challenges such as oil spills, gas flaring,
deforestation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss continue to undermine
environmental quality and community livelihoods. Weak regulatory enforcement,
inadequate baseline data, and poor implementation of Environmental Impact
Assessments (EIA) further limit effective environmental mitigation. This study
examines the role of environmental impact analysis in shaping sustainable
operational strategies of international oil firms operating in Nigeria.
Anchored on Stakeholder Theory and Sustainable Development Theory, the study
highlights the importance of balancing economic objectives with environmental
protection and social responsibility. Findings from existing literature
indicate that improved environmental performance and sustainability investments
enhance operational efficiency, financial returns, and corporate reputation.
The study identifies key sustainable operational strategies, including
strengthening EIA quality, adopting cleaner technologies, implementing
integrated environmental monitoring systems, promoting community participation,
aligning with ESG frameworks, investing in environmental remediation, and
adopting responsible decommissioning practices. The study concludes that
environmental impact analysis is no longer a regulatory formality but a
strategic tool for achieving long-term operational sustainability. It recommends
that international oil firms integrate rigorous environmental assessment
processes into operational planning to reduce ecological harm, improve
stakeholder trust, and enhance long-term competitiveness in Nigeria’s evolving
energy landscape.
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Pages:71-75
How to cite this article:
Chukwuyem Precious Mormah "Environmental impact analysis of oil and gas operations in Nigeria: Implications for sustainable operational strategies of international firms". International Journal of Advanced Research and Development, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 71-75
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