Methane Emissions Threaten Fishing Community in Akwa Ibom

The fishing community of Akata, located in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, is experiencing significant environmental challenges due to methane emissions from surrounding oil and gas operations. Fisherman Monday George recalls a time in the early 2000s when fishing was prosperous, allowing him to contribute N40,000 weekly to a local thrift scheme.

However, by 2012, fish catches began to decline, with warmer water temperatures and the disappearance of various fish species. Many fishermen now struggle to catch anything beyond smaller fish like bonga, leading to increased costs and risks associated with fishing in deeper waters.

Tengi George-Ikoli, Country Manager for Nigeria at the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), emphasizes that for communities near oil and gas facilities, methane is a pressing issue affecting air quality, health, and livelihoods. The situation has forced some fishermen, like Udeme, to venture into deeper waters, resulting in tragic consequences for families.