Spatiotemporal dynamics of Anthropogenic Triggers of Wetland Loss and Degradation in the Obio/Akpor Region between 1990 to 2020

Wetlands are one of the world's most productive ecosystems, benefiting humans and the environment. Wetlands are natural assets that can deliver ecosystem services from local to regional scales; despite their value, wetlands are being degraded at an unprecedented rate. The study assessed the extent of wetland loss and degradation due to human activities between 1990-2020 in Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study adopted a mixed-method research approach with a cross-sectional research design. The study employed purposive sampling techniques to select the sampled community and respondents. A total of 5 communities were selected for the study, and a 399 sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. The study found that between 1990-2000 and 2010-2020, wetlands had a percentage loss of -10.2% and -5.33%, respectively, indicating an immense loss in wetland ecosystems in the study area. Based on the findings in the research, the following recommendations must be considered which include Government at all levels should encourage the use of green infrastructure, low-impact development techniques, and innovative growth principles to protect wetland ecosystems, Government with the aid of environmental agencies should enhance existing regulations and enforce stricter policies to control human activities and these regulations should prioritise wetland protection and restoration while promoting sustainable land use practices, planning body should strictly enforce the land use control measures utilising sub-division regulation, zoning ordinance, building and housing codes including site and service approach and Government should engage local communities, stakeholders, and decision-makers through outreach programmes, workshops, and educational campaigns.