Shoreline Change Detection in the Niger Delta: A Case Study of Ibeno Shoreline in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research presents remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) based application in the analysis of Shoreline change in Ibeno L. G. Area, Akwa Ibom State. Satellite imageries of 1986Satellite imageries of , 2006Satellite imageries of and 2008 were used to extract the shoreline through heads-up digitization. The rate of shoreline change was assessed using Linear Regression (LRR) and End Point Rate (EPR) methods. The shoreline change detection was conducted using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS). The result however indicated that the rate of erosion is found out to be very high with maximum value of -7.8m/yr recorded at Itak Abasi community. On the other hand, some portions of the shoreline are accreting at an average rate of 2m/yr. Based on this result however, it is concluded that Ibeno shoreline is eroding at an average rate of -3.9m/yr. Areas mostly affected by accretion processes are identified near Qua Iboe River Estuary and ExxonMobil Jetty where sand filling is usually done for settlement purposes. This best explains the reason for the submersion of school buildings, residential buildings and the persistent inundation of large portions of land in the area. However, acquisition of high resolution satellite images which is believed will facilitate regular assessment, monitoring and modeling of the Nigerian shorelines has been recommended. This will help to model the scenario and proffer proactive measures towards curbing the menace by ensuring effective environmental management practices, timely emergency responses, and salvage the immediate physical environment.