The Environmental Impact of Shoreline Changes and Land Use/Land Cover Change Detection in the Niger Delta Region using Geospatial Technology

Managing resources in marine areas necessitates a thorough understanding of coastal processes. This study examines the changes to the shoreline between 1990 and 2021 and assesses how those changes have impacted land use and land cover (LULC). In Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, over a period of 31 years, shoreline changes in the Ikoli River, River Nun, and Oxbow Lake revealed notable oscillations caused by erosion. In particular, band ratios are used to classify LULC maps for each district across the relevant years. The shoreline along the River Nun ranges from 31% to 35%, with 2013 being the highest; along the Ikoli River, it is 33% to 35%, with 2021 being the highest; and along Oxbow Lake, it is 21% to 35%, with 2021 being the highest, according to accurate evaluations of the United States Geological Survey datasets using ArcGIS software. Due to sand mining, boat traffic, heavy rain, fish farming, and oil and gas operations in the area, LULC predicts a sharp decline in vegetation and bare land from 1990 to 2021 and an increase in built-up areas and waterbodies. The socioeconomic risk from environmental stressors and climate change is identified by LULC. Geospatial is useful in coastal defenses and sustainable landuse strategies.