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Macrodebris and Microplastics Pollution in Nigeria: First Report on Abundance, Distribution and Composition
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Researchers conducted the first comprehensive survey of macroplastic and microplastic pollution across multiple sites in Nigeria, documenting abundant plastic debris — including fragments, films, and pellets — in coastal and freshwater environments. The study establishes baseline contamination data for an understudied region of West Africa.
The abundance, distribution and composition of marine debris (> 5 cm) and small microplastics (11 μm) from five rivers in South Eastern, Nigeria was investigated. This study provided the first assessment of the type and quantity of marine litter and microplastics in Nigeria. A total of 3487 macrodebris items/m2 were counted with the following distribution; plastics (59 %) > metal (10 %) > cloth (7 %), paper /cardboard (7 %), rubber (7 %) > glass/ceramics (5 %), medical and agro-based waste (3 %) > wood (2 %). The cleanliness of the river assessed with clean coast index (CCI) ranged from “very clean” at Okumpi and Obiaraedu river to “extremely dirty” at Nwangele river. Microplastics abundance ranged from 440 to 1556 particles/L, with high accumulation at downstream. Fragment shape was most abundant while fiber and film followed. The distribution of plastic types was; PET (29 %) > PE (22 %) > PVC (16 %) > PP (14 %) > other (6 %) respectively. Significant relationship was found between the total abundances of microplastics and different macrodebris groups suggesting that microplastics were abundant in areas where the macrodebris abundance was high. Our results provide baseline information for future assessments. Management actions should focus on input prevention including proper waste management, recycling of plastics, and strict penalties for illegal dumping of wastes.
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Microplastics in the Nigerian Environment- A review
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This review summarizes microplastic contamination in Nigeria, covering sources, distribution in the environment, and potential impacts on ecosystems and human health. The study highlights that microplastics are now detectable throughout Nigerian environments and calls for greater research attention and policy action in the West African context.
Macrodebris and microplastics pollution in Nigeria: first report on abundance, distribution and composition
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Researchers conducted the first assessment of macrodebris and microplastics in five rivers in southeastern Nigeria, finding plastics as the dominant macrodebris type at 59% and documenting small microplastic particles as small as 11 micrometers across all sites.
Assessment of fishes, sediment and water from some inland rivers across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria for microplastics
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Researchers analyzed fish, sediment, and water samples from inland rivers in Nigeria for microplastic contamination, finding particles across all matrices sampled. The study provides baseline pollution data for a region with limited prior microplastic monitoring.
Microplastic particles in river sediments and water of southwestern Nigeria: insights on the occurrence, seasonal distribution, composition, and source apportionment
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Researchers surveyed microplastic contamination in river water and sediments across southwestern Nigeria, providing some of the first baseline data for the region. They found microplastics at every sampling site, with fibers and fragments being the most common forms, and concentrations varying by season and location. The study points to urban runoff, agricultural activities, and inadequate waste management as the primary sources of this pollution.
Microplastics in the Nigerian Environment- A review
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This review summarizes the state of microplastic research in Nigeria, covering findings from terrestrial and aquatic environments. It highlights the rapid proliferation of plastics, their breakdown into microplastics, and the limited but growing research attention given to this issue in the Nigerian context.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.