Ionizing Radiation Profile of the Hydrocarbon Belt of Nigeria

Abstract

Man and his environment are constantly bombarded with naturally occurring ionizing radiation. However, aside from the radiation occurring naturally in the human environment, there are those resulting from man’s activities. These anthropogenic activities result in the elevation of the background ionizing radiation levels mainly through the depletion of the ozone layer so that an increase occurs in the amount of cosmic radiation reaching the earth (Foland et al, 1995). One crucial area of human activity is the hydrocarbon industry. Globally, the hydrocarbon industry is a strategic industry, contributing to the wealth of nations and the prosperity of individuals. Global economy is often appreciably impacted by the stability or otherwise of the industry. Furthermore, much of the world’s population is dependent on the industry for its energy needs. Significantly also, the processes and techniques of oil and gas exploration, exploitation and usage contribute to the devastation, pollution and degradation of the environment. In Nigeria, the hydrocarbon industry is reputed to be the highest user of radioactive substances in the country (Chad-Umoren and Obinoma, 2007). And the Niger Delta region of Nigeria plays host to the largest concentration of companies in this sector. The maze of crisis-crossing pipelines in the region (Fig.1) does not only transport oil and gas, but also dangerous radioactive substances so that the environment is not despoiled only during oil spillage, but is also polluted with harmful ionizing radiation. Also abundant in the region are numerous non-oil and gas industries and operations that have been attracted into the region by its oil and gas wealth.