Impact of petroleum exploration on environmental sustainability in Nigeria

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62672/joease.v4i3.301

Keywords:

Crude oil production, Economic growth, Environmental sustainability, Nigeria, PM₂.₅ pollution

Abstract

This study critically examines the impact of petroleum exploration proxied by crude oil production on environmental sustainability in Nigeria over the period 2005-2023 using the micro meter (PM2) air pollution exposure as an indicator of environmental quality index. This study uses descriptive statistics analysis to examine the trends in crude oil production, environmental quality and economic growth while Autoregressive Distribututed Lag (ARDL) was used to empirically analyse the relationship between crude oil production and environmental quality. Unit root test was conducted to determine the stationarity properties of the variables accompanied by the use of ARDL Bounds test to ascertain the existence of long-run relationship among the variables. Short-run dynamic and long-run effects were estimated using an error correction ARDL model and Granger causality test to test for the direction of the causality. The results show that there is an existence of stable long-run relationship between crude oil production, economic growth and environmental quality in Nigeria with Crude oil production found to have a negative long-run effect on environmental sustainability (increase in micro meter pollution levels), which indicates that petroleum exploration activities contribute a significant environmental degradation. GDP per capita exhibit a positive long =run relationship with environmental quality suggesting that sustained economic growth may improve environmental outcomes over time. Granger causality results indicate a feedback relationship between economic growth and environmental quality while crude oil production shows no significant short-run causal link with either variable. The study concludes that although petroleum exploration remains vital to Nigeria’s economy, it presents a serious environmental sustainability challenge. It therefore recommends a stronger environmental regulation, adoption of clear production technologies and alignment of economic growth strategies with environmental protection objectives to ensure sustainable development.

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Published

30-09-2026

How to Cite

Abraham, F. K., Victor, E. O., Capntan, P. M., & Abiola, J. A. (2026). Impact of petroleum exploration on environmental sustainability in Nigeria. Journal of Environment and Sustainability Education, 4(3), 657–667. https://doi.org/10.62672/joease.v4i3.301

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026)

Section

Articles

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