Research Article

The Hidden Costs of Crude Oil Exploitation: Examining Physical, Social, and Psychological Health Effects in the Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Exploiting crude oil in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria has brought economic growth but has also resulted in hidden costs affecting the local population’s physical, social, and psychological health. Methods: This study conducted a descriptive crosssectional analysis in selected crude oil-bearing communities in the Niger Delta. Data was collected from 300 participants using semi-structured questionnaires, focusing on demographics, disease burden, and the socio-psycho-physical effects of oil exploitation. Results: Physical health issues, such as dermatitis and diarrhea, were alarmingly common linked to environmental pollution and hazardous exposure. Socially, communities experienced disruption, migration, and cultural erosion. The most concerning finding was the widespread psychological toll, including isolation and depression, driven by insecurity and ecological degradation. Conclusion: To address these challenges, we recommend comprehensive environmental remediation, social support programs, and accessible mental health services. Strengthening transparency and accountability in the oil industry is essential, as is a transition to cleaner energy sources. These recommendations aim to mitigate the hidden costs of crude oil exploitation and contribute to a sustainable and equitable energy future for affected communities.

Authors affiliation:

Yusuf Muhammad Abdullahi (ORCID): Department of Environmental Health, World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence, Centre for Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Port Harcourt, Nigeria., Department of Public Health, Saadu Zungur University, Bauchi State, Nigeria. 
Hamza Garba (ORCID): Department of Public Health and Environmental Health, Federal University Dutse, Nigeria. Department of Public Health, Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria.
Adam Ibrahim Abdullahi (ORCID): Department of Public Health, Saadu Zungur University, Bauchi State, Nigeria.
Yusuf Musa (ORCID): Department of Public Health, Saadu Zungur University, Bauchi State, Nigeria. 
Nurudeen Aliyu (ORCID): Department of Public Health and Environmental Health, ICONIC University Sokoto, Nigeria. 
Shuaibu Suleiman (ORCID): Department of Public and Community Health, Emirates College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kano Nigeria. 
Fatima Lawal Shehu (ORCID): Katsina State Primary Health Care Agency, Nigeria.
Ibrahim Onifade (ORCID): Department of Public and Community Health, Emirates College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kano Nigeria. 
Abuhuraira Ado Musa (ORCID): Department of Public Health, Saadu Zungur University, Bauchi State, Nigeria.

How To Cite: Y. M. Abdullahi, H. Garba, A. I. Abdullahi, Y. Musa, N. Aliyu, S. Suleiman, F. L. Shehu, I. Onifade, A. A. Musa. The Hidden Costs of Crude Oil Exploitation: Examining Physical, Social, and Psychological Health Effects in the Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria. Journal of Applied Health Sciences and Medicine, 6(8):50–55, 2026.
https://doi.org/10.58614/jahsm688