The Impact of Environmental Degradation on Women of Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

This work examines females as victims in the degraded Niger Delta of Nigeria using select texts of Kaine Agary and Million John. The Niger Delta region has suffered great devastation as a result of humanity’s recklessness and inordinate exploitation of natural resources. Oil spills, gas flares and cutting of pristine forests are some of the activities that foster environmental degradation in the area. The Problem of the study investigates the multiplicity of environmental issues in the Niger Delta, especially as it affects females in the region. The Purpose of the study interrogates the Niger Delta environment and how the various shades of degradation affect the females physically, psychologically, emotionally and economically. In the literary work as explored by the writers, this study finds women and young girls at the centre of the pillaged lot and the most exploited group. This study concludes that women, irrespective of their environmental and cultural challenges remain resilient as they strive as indispensable partners in the struggle to redeem their ailing environment.