Ilegal petroleum refining and health security in the global community

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between illegal petroleum refining (IPR) activities and health related issues in three selected local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria; Degema, Ogu-bolo, and Opobo, using a cross-sectional survey design. A total population of 686,900 was considered, from which a sample size of 384 respondents was derived using the proportion estimation formula. A total of 295 respondents were covered for analysis, based on the response rate of the useable questionnaire received. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, while secondary data were obtained from existing literature. Additionally, nine healthcare professionals in the study areas were interviewed. Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation via SPSS. Results reveal a statistically significant moderate negative correlation (r = −0.439, p < 0.01) between IPR activities and health conditions. Findings demonstrate that over 70 % of respondents reported frequent exposure to IPR by-products, with the most common health effects including respiratory complications (46 %), dermatological issues (31 %), and potential carcinogenic risk (18 %). The study identifies IPR as a significant environmental and public health hazard in the Niger Delta. A novel recommendation is proposed to mitigate the health burden, by technically integrating informal refining expertise into a regulated and environmentally safe national petroleum refining framework. This approach presents an innovative policy pathway towards reducing health risks while addressing energy needs sustainably.