In this interview with IFEDAYO OGUNYEMI, Samuel Babatunde, an environmental scientist and researcher at the Western Illinois University, United States of America, speaks on challenges facing aquaculture in Nigeria, among other issues.
AS an environmental scientist, what do you consider to be the most pressing water quality issues facing Nigeria today, and how can they be addressed?
Nigeria faces several critical water quality issues, including inadequate access to clean drinking water, pollution from industrial and agricultural sources, and poor sanitation infrastructure. One of the most pressing concerns is the contamination of water bodies by untreated sewage and industrial effluents, which can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases and harm aquatic ecosystems. To address these issues, Nigeria must invest in modern water treatment facilities, enforce strict regulations on industrial waste disposal, and promote public awareness about the importance of water conservation and hygiene. Additionally, implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as reducing pesticide and fertiliser use, can help minimise nutrient runoff and protect water resources.
Your research focuses on the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water, fish, and other environmental media. Can you explain what PFAS are and why they are a concern in Nigeria?
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products, such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foams. These chemicals are highly persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the bodies of humans and wildlife. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health problems, including certain cancers, immune system dysfunction, and developmental issues. In Nigeria, PFAS contamination may occur through the improper disposal of industrial waste, the use of PFAS-containing products, and the lack of adequate water treatment facilities. Monitoring and regulating PFAS levels in the environment is crucial to protect public health and ensure the safety of our water resources.
You have been involved in the design and restoration of wetlands and streams in the United States. How can similar approaches be applied in Nigeria to improve water quality and biodiversity?
Wetlands and streams play a vital role in maintaining water quality, regulating water flow, and providing habitat for diverse plant and animal species. In Nigeria, many of these ecosystems have been degraded due to urbanisation, agriculture, and other human activities. By restoring and constructing wetlands and streams, we can enhance their natural filtration capabilities, reduce erosion, and create buffer zones that trap pollutants and nutrients before they enter larger water bodies. In the Nigerian context, this could involve implementing community-based restoration projects, promoting the use of native vegetation, and educating the public about the importance of preserving these ecosystems. Additionally, integrating wetland and stream restoration into urban planning and development can help mitigate the impacts of rapid urbanisation on water quality and biodiversity.
Nigeria has a thriving aquaculture industry. As someone with experience in this field, what sustainable practices can fish farmers adopt to minimise their environmental impact and ensure the long-term viability of their operations?
Sustainable aquaculture practices are essential for minimising the environmental impact of fish farming while ensuring the long-term productivity and profitability of the industry. One key approach is to adopt integrated agriculture-aquaculture systems, which combine fish farming with crop production and livestock rearing. This allows for the recycling of nutrients and waste, reducing the need for external inputs and minimising pollution. Other sustainable practices include using locally sourced, plant-based feeds, implementing water recirculation systems to reduce water usage and waste discharge, and promoting the cultivation of native fish species that are well-adapted to local conditions. Additionally, regular monitoring of water quality parameters and implementing biosecurity measures can help prevent disease outbreaks and maintain the health of farmed fish.
Your work on nutrient assessment and reduction plans has been crucial in addressing water quality issues in the United States. How can similar strategies be implemented in Nigeria to combat nutrient pollution from agricultural and urban sources?
Nutrient pollution, primarily from excess nitrogen and phosphorus, is a significant threat to water quality in Nigeria. These nutrients can come from various sources, including agricultural runoff, sewage discharge, and urban stormwater. To address this issue, Nigeria can adopt nutrient assessment and reduction strategies similar to those used in the United States. This involves conducting comprehensive water quality monitoring programs to identify nutrient hotspots and sources, setting nutrient reduction targets, and implementing best management practices (BMPs) to control nutrient loads. In agricultural areas, BMPs may include precision fertiliser application, cover cropping, and creating vegetated buffer strips along waterways. In urban settings, strategies such as constructing wetlands, installing permeable pavements, and promoting green infrastructure can help reduce nutrient-rich stormwater runoff. Engaging stakeholders, including farmers, industries, and local communities, is crucial for the successful implementation of these strategies.
As an advocate for sustainable environmental practices, what message would you like to convey to policymakers and the general public in Nigeria regarding the importance of protecting our water resources?
Protecting our water resources is not just an environmental issue; it is a matter of public health, economic stability, and social well-being. Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right, and it is the responsibility of both policymakers and citizens to ensure that this right is upheld. To achieve this, we must adopt a holistic approach that recognises the interconnectedness of our water resources, ecosystems, and human activities. Policymakers must prioritise investments in water infrastructure, enforce strict environmental regulations, and promote sustainable water management practices across all sectors. The general public also has a crucial role to play by conserving water, properly disposing of waste, and supporting initiatives that protect and restore our water bodies. Only through collective action and a shared commitment to sustainability can we secure a future in which all Nigerians have access to clean, safe, and reliable water resources.
ALSO READ: APC calls for cancellation of LG poll in Oyo
Source: