971375 environmental impact assessment of typical road project

8/13/2019 971375 Environmental Impact Assessment of Typical Road Project

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Environmental Impact Assessment of Typical Road Project

Draft Report. Version: 01 1

Environmental Impact Assessment ofTypical Road Project

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Project area state plays a very important role in the development of state.

The significance of good roads in the countrys quest for infrastructure and

industrial development is well recognized. However, wide range of environmental

problems resulting from uncontrolled industrial growth, urbanization and resource

exploitation today seriously threatens the natural environment. The consciousness

and concern about this is now worldwide and has necessitated a number of

international conventions and summits. Environment was described as the global

issue of the year in 1970.

This concern culminated in the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the environment.

Environmental issues have since gained prominence in national and international

statutes and conventions, amongst the latest of which arose from the Rio Global

Environmental Summit of 1992. All sectors of the global society now acknowledge

the centrality of environment to human existence. The promotion of human dignity

is linked to the right to a healthy environment, this right highlights the dynamics of

relationship between the individual and society, the danger of serious damage to

land and sea and to the climate, flora and fauna, calls for profound change in way

we manage the environment, particularly in the richer countries.

1.1 Background

Prior to embarking on any major project, activity or development in Nigeria it is

mandatory that the proponent carries out a study to ascertain the likely impacts,


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adverse and/or beneficial and the extent of these impacts on the physical,

biological and human socio-economic environment. Throughout all stages of the

project from its planning phase to operational and decommissioning phases the

proponent shall ensure that all identified adverse impacts addressed in different

stages of the project. One of the most important aspects of the E.I.A process is

consultation with the communities, stakeholders and the regulatory agencies.

1.1.1 Country Location.

Nigeria, lying between latitudes 40and 14

0North of the equator and longitudes 30

and 140 East of the Greenwich Meridian on the West coast of Africa, covers an

area of 923,768km2. Chad and Niger Republics to the North, Cameroon to the

East, Republics of Benin and Togo to the West and the Atlantic Ocean to the

South border it. With a population of about 130million, it is the most populous

black African nation in the world. Socio-economic activities include commerce,

agriculture (farming/fishing),

1.1.2 Project Location

The project traverses Local Government Areas viz: Askira/Project area Local

Government, Borno State (Fig. 1.1), and lies between latitudes 302220E and

268001E and between longitudes 1157159N and 1191258N. The route is on a dry

savanna terrain of light mangroves, bush and especially but gradually yielding to

encroachment by human activity. Agriculture is mainly subsistence farming, and

driving forms the main occupation of the people. The topography of the area is

relatively flat, and it is characterized by sandy clayey topsoil, and savanna

vegetation.

1.1.3 Vegetation


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Vegetation of the study areas are characterised by Sub sudan zone and the

Northern Guinea Savanna. The sub sudan zone marked by short grasses and

interspersed by short tree.The grassland along the bank depends to a large extent

on the floodplain boundaries during the rainy season.

1.1.4 Area Geology

The geology of the study area falls within the Bima Sandston of the lau basin. The

adjoining area is predominantly savanna ecosystem. The scattered trees along the

project area are mature and fully developed, with a height of over 25 m and a girth of

about 2 m. The entire zone is rich in species and therefore very highly fragile and

sensitive to development activities.

The proposed project lies within the Lau basin early Tertiary sediment build-up.

Geologically, Extensive deposits of sandstone occur north and south of the basin

underlie the study area and environs. This formation, which comprises chiefly soilsandy, clay stone shaley, and granite, weathered and fractured.

Subsurface in the area is made up of a few metres thickness of sandstone fairly

cemented, clay stone shaley of the first 23 to 72 m. Between depths of 72 to 107m,

the lithology may include Mudstone, dark grey, granite, weathered and fractured.

Thin beds of fine sands may alternate with sandy clay beds.

Good aquifers may be encountered at depth below 60. In most cases, however, clean gravel

sand alternate with confining black greyish clays between depths of 55 to 70m. In fact, most

boreholes have gone as deep as 90 to 100 m tapping sand and gravel beds as aquifers.

1.1.5 Climate

The study area experiences a dry/hot tropical climate. The region experiences two distinct

weather seasons the dry season from November to March and the wet season from April


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to October although rain falls throughout the year. The rainfall pattern exhibits maxima with

peak in August. Average annual rainfall is about 750-1000mm distributed over every month

with 80% received during the rainy season. Wind speed is generally high with annual mean

of 6.7 m/second and is mostly in the south-westerly, southerly to westerly direction. Higher

wind speed tends to occur during the dry season months and at the beginning of the wet

season.

1.2 The Proponent

The proponent is the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing Abuja. The ministry is

involved in the infrastructure and logistic aids development and maintenance. These

infrastructures such as roads and bridges are distributed throughout the Federation. More

than 32000 km of roads have been constructed or rehabili tated by the present

administration.

1.3 The Project

The Federal Ministry of Works proposes to embark on the development of new road

project within the Borno State. This is part of Federal Governments efforts at opening up

the area given its place as one of the main contributor to the economy of the country.

Borno is home to companies involved in the exploration and exploitation of minera

resources for domestic and commercial purposes.

It is now proposed by the FMW to construct a road that would cover Project area road

with paved s houlders and strengthening the exis ting one by

overlays/rehabilitation/reconstruction.

Existing cross-drainage structures on the route are proposed to be repaired/rehabilitated.

New cross-drainage structures would be provided on the new ne carriageway. In addition

to strengthening the existing carriageway, the project would improve the geometric

deficiencies including the improvement of any intersection encountered. The proposed

improvement aims at enhancing the riding quality, improving journey speed and reducing


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congestion of traffic on the highway. It is proposed to provide service roads, proper

drainage, grade-separation, road furniture, utilities and amenities wherever required. The

project highway pass es through 5 major towns and 15 village settlements.

1.4 Legal And Administrative Framework

Some statutory regulations exists, which, require that a Development Permit for any new

project and those that require the proponent of a major/mandatory project to submit an

EIA, study report prior to the execution and before an approval for project execution. The

Project area is subject to many other specific statutes, guidelines and standards that

ensure compliance with environmental pollution abatement in facilities that generate

wastes, groundwater protection and surface impoundment, health and safety, and

hazardous substances. These statutory regulations are summarized or tabulated below:

1.4.1 Landuse Act 1978

The Landuse Act was promulgated in 1978 with commencement date of March 29, 1978.

It vests all land in each State of the Federation (except land already vested in the Federal

Government of Nigeria or its agencies) in the Governor of the State. It makes the State

Government the authority for allocating land in all urban areas for residential, agricultural,

commercial and other purposes, while it confers similar powers regarding non-urban

areas on the local governments in such cases. The governor of a State can revoke a

right of occupancy for overriding public interest (e.g. new road development purposes)

The following surface rights are permitted under Section 51 of the Landuse Act:

fishing rights

buildings and other structures, juju shrines, objects of worship

farms, cultivated crops, economic trees, roads

loss of use of the land.


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1.4.2 Federal Ministry of Environment, FMEnv

The Federal Ministry of Environment is now the apex institution in Nigeria charged with

the overall responsibility for the protection and development of the environment,

biodiversity conservation and sustainable development of Nigerias natural resources.

The Ministry grants permits for environmental and laboratory consultancies and must

approve an EIA study of a major development activity such as this one before the

proponent can implement execution.

1.4.3 Federal Environmental Protection Agenc y, FEPA, Act No. 58, 1988

The decree which was issued in 1991, provides National Interim Guidelines and

Standards for industrial effluents, gaseous emissions, noise, air quality and hazardous

wastes management for Nigeria

1.4.4 Environmental Impact Assessment Act No. 86, 1992EIA Act No. 86 decree, became operational on 10

thDecember 1992, provides guidelines

for activities, in which EIA is mandatory in Nigeria. Such developments include the

following:

Coastal reclamation involving an area of 50 hectares or more;

Conversion of mangrove swamps for industrial use covering an area

of 50 hectares or more

New road development.

This process involves the undertaking of mandatory study/meditation or

assessment by a review panel and the preparation of a mandatory EIA

report.

1.4.5 Former FEPA Regulations


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The Federal Ministry of Environment through former FEPA has the following

other regulations, policies and guidelines:

(a) The National Policy on Environment, FGN 1989

(b) National Guidelines and Standards for Environmental Pollution Control

in Nigeria.

(c) National Effluent Limitations Regulations S.1.8, 1991, lists the

parameters in industrial effluents and gaseous emissions and their

limitations and standards for discharges into the environment.

(d) National Pollution Abatement in Industries and Facilities Generally

Wastes Regulations S.1.9 1991 requires every industry to install anti

pollution abatement equipment to treat effluent discharges and gaseous

emissions to the s tandards and limits prescribed in Regulations S.1.8

(e) Was te Management and Hazardous Wastes Regulations S.1.15

1.4.6 World Bank Guidelines and Requirements on Environmental Assessment

World Bank requires the execution of an EIA on a proposed industrial activity by a

borrower as a pre-requisite before granting any financial assistance in form of loans.

Details of World Banks EIA procedures and guidelines are published in the Banks EA

Source Book vols. I-III of 1991. Potential issues considered for EA include the following:

Biological Diversity

Coastal and Marine Resources Management

Cultural Properties

Hazardous and Toxic Materials and

International Waterways.


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This project is a Category A project, because of its cumulative magnitude of

environmental and social impacts, and therefore requires full environmental analysis and

assessment. The emphasis of the World Bank is an integration of the mitigation measures

into the project design and mainstreaming environment in all stages of planning,

implementation and operation.

It may also be pertinent to note that while the World Bank requirements now have been

modified and new projects must conform to the OD 4.01, this project was identified and

the individual environmental assessments were prepared within the framework of OD

4.01 only.

1.4.7 Forestry Law CAP 52, 1994

Forestry Law CAP 51 OF Lagos is the only substantive legislation applicable to all parts

of the federation. The law prohibits any act that may lead to the destruction of or causeinjuries to any forest produce, forest growth or forest property. The law prescribes the

administrative framework for the management, utilization and protection of forestry

resources in Nigeria. This law is applicable to the mangrove forest of the Niger Delta.

A list of Nigerian laws and regulations enacted at various times since 1963, that are

concerned with environmental protection are tabulated hereunder.

1.4.8 Federal Ministry of Works Regulations

It is in compliance with the above national and International regulations and the newly

established Ministry of Works HSE policy and guidelines that this EIA studies on the

proposed action is being undertaken.

FMW is committed to its environmental management policy by complying with relevant

legislation covering various environmental effects arising from the construction and

operation of the proposed road project, including noise, gaseous emission, particulate,


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Manage HSE matters as any other activity

Promote a culture in which all FMW em ployees share this commitment.

Pursue the goal of no harm to people while executing its projects and

other activities.

Protect the environment

Use material efficiently to provide quality products and services.

Develop infrastructures, products and services consistent with these aims

Consult with our stakeholders and publicly report on our performance

Play a leading role in promoting best practice in our in the Ministry.

Some specific Nigerian Government Laws and regulation related to environmental,

conservation and safety in Nigeria includes but not limited to include the following:

S/No

Document Title And Description Date

1 Mineral Oils (Safety) Regulations 1963

2 Petroleum Regulations 1967

3 Petroleum Act. 1969

4 Trade Dispute Act. 1973

5 Earthing Code of Practice 1976

6 Electricity Supply Regulations (Including Electrical Supply

Act.1929)

1979

7 Wiring Regulations 1979

8 Labour Act 1987

9 Workmens Compensation Act 1987

10 Factories Act 1987

11 Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions, Etc.) Act 1988

12 Federal Environmental Protection Agency Decree No 58 1988


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13 Gas Industry in Nigeria, Draft Regulations 1989

14 Director of Petroleum and Mineral Resources

Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum

Industry in Nigeria

1991

15 S.1.8: National Environmental Protection (Effluent

Limitation) Regulations

1991

16 S.1.9: national Environmental Protection (Pollution

Abatement in Industries and Facilities Generating Waste)

Regulations

1991

17 Federal Environmental Protection Agency Interim

Guidelines and Standards for Environmental Pollution

Control in Nigeria

1991

18 Environmental Impact Assessment Decree No. 86 1992

19 S.1.14 Oil and Gas Pipelines Regulations 1995

20 Endangered Species Act No. 11 1985

1.5.9 Borno State Environmental Protection Agency, (BSEPA)

The Edict setting up the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency (BSEPA)

outlines the primary responsibilities of the agency, which is to protect and develop

the general environment of Borno State.

The EIA Act No 86 of 1992 is the substantive law that regulates the

siting of projects that impinge on environmental elements in Nigeria, the state in

which each project is located has a major role to play in the overall EIA process as

a matter of law.

Es tablishment and implementation of the numerous strategies of the

National Policy on Environment towards achieving sustainable

development;


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Implementation of applicable existing edicts on activities related to

the environment.

Monitoring the implementation of EIA and Environmental audit (EAR)

guidelines and procedure on all developed policies and project within

the state.

Responsibility for general environmental matters in the state

including the negative effects of soil degradation due to oil and

mineral exploitation and exploration.

1.6 Environmental Impact Assessment Process in The Project

The environmental impact assessment for the project employed a reiterative approach in

which environmental issues have been identified in successive levels of detail and

specificity at each step in the process. Incorporation of feedback from the variousstakeholders as well as 'public hearings' and analyzing were essential features of this

methodology.

The following were the stages of environmental impact assessment of the project

Initial Environmental and Social Screening (IESS): An IESS s tudy of the project

had been carried out as part of the feasibility study, to categorise the corridor into

sections based on environmental and social sensitivity, and to screen significant

environmental and social issues that needed to be addressed.

Documentation of Baseline Conditions: The potentially affected area (PAA) was

defined and the baseline conditions were documented.

Assessment of Potential Impacts: Potential s ignificant impacts were identified on

the basis of an analytical review of baseline data.


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Integration of Environmental Assessments in the Design Process: The design and

decision-making process integrated environmental and resettlement and

rehabili tation issues and prompted the early identification of appropriate actions, as

shifts in alignments based on awareness of the locations of cultural resources.

Assessment of Alternatives : Alternatives were continuously assessed throughout

the process. A more formal assessment was also undertaken as a part of the

environmental assessment process, including the assessment of the 'No Action'

Alternative.

Mitigation & Enhancement Measures: Positive actions to not only avoid advers e

impacts, but to capitalize on opportunities to correct environmental degradation or

improve environmental conditions were determined. The mitigation measures

would be directed towards the restoration of the dynam ic balance of nature.

Community Consultation: Consultations with concerned officials, agencies and

potentially affected persons continued through out the process and will continue as

the project proceeds. The issues raised by the communities and the various

stakeholders were incorporated, as far as possible, in the design andconstruction/operation plan of the project.

Environmental Management Plans (EMP): An EMP for the road section detailing

the measures to be taken for the implementation of the various measures

proposed. This includes the monitoring plan and gives details of the resources

budgeted and the implementation arrangements.

In addition to the EA process as adopted, a further in-depth study of the following issues

has been carried out as part of the OBSG:

Address ing of direct and induced impacts on the various environmental

components;

Specific designs for the mitigation measures provided;

Site specific enhancement designs for elements along the corridor, including

cultural properties, water bodies, bus stops etc;

Redevelopment of borrow areas;


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Prediction of impacts due to the project on air quality, noise, and provision of

mitigation measures;

Traffic management plans during construction; and

Monitoring mechanisms and indicators during construction and operation periods.

This Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed road project is part of the

environmental management strategy FMW adopts to ensure preservation of the Nigeria

environment and its resources through sound environmental practices.

The process encourages interacting with the public, government, leaseholders the

contractor and other planning group so that any identified unacceptable environmental

effects of the project are mitigated. Consultation among all stakeholders, especially

among EIA team will ensure that all relevant information regarding design, construction

and maintenance are jointly acceptable.

Acquisition of the baseline data for the assessment was through field surveys,questionnaire administration/interviews supplemented with published data (literature). To

enable the establishment of the existing state of the environment using the criteria set out

in FMEn vs Sectoral EIA Guidelines.

1.6.1 Objectives Of EIA

Specifically, the objectives of conducting the EIA are to:

(i) Identify the exis ting biophysical, chemical and socio-economic setting

of the environment within the context of the road route;

(ii ) Quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate the impacts of the proposed

road construction and operations on the environment;

(iii) Recommend modifications and mitigations plans with change and

control measures to eliminate or decrease identified impacts; and

(iv) Identify means to or rehabil itate damaged environment, including

monitoring programmes.


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Generally the objective of the EIA is aimed at providing a sound basis for

decision making about the design of the project components that takes

environmental considerations into account, ensuring that the project is

implemented with awareness of environmental factors, and that potential

environmental impacts are recognized and addressed.

The work/studies for the full E.I.A consist of field and laboratory

assessments in the following headings:

Biodiversity and Wildlife

Health Risk

Community and Socio-Economic

Air Quality and Noise Level

Water and Soil

Aquatic Biology

Vegetation Waste and Environmental Management

1.7 Terms of Reference, TOR

The objectives of the TOR are to:

collate baseline information available to bekebor and Siama and its

environs

highlight the main environmental concerns to guide execution project.

serve as a liaison product in which the FMW contractors identify the

existing and proposed road

serve as an advance notification to the Regulatory Agencies

especially the Federal Ministry of Environment.

1.8 EIA Premises

The key EIA premises were established to provide general guidance, framework and a

commitment to standards, which are acceptable nationally and internationally. In line with


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this, the premises will be retained in this study and variations allowed only in

circumstances where there is absolute necessity to do so with supported facts and

evidences. Additional procedures, commitments and understandings necessary to resolve

environmental impact, were developed and adopted through the EIA process. The

premises are as follows:

Federal Ministry of Works recognises the Federal Ministry of

Environment (FMEnv) and the Department of Petroleum

Resources (DPR) National Environmental Guidelines and

Standards for the Petroleum Industry in Nigeria, 1991, and other

laws operating both nationally and internationally. Furthermore,

the project has adopted the best option relevant to the local

circumstances and situations.

The road has been designed to comply with these local and

national laws, together with all the international protocols,

agreements and conventions.

The understandings reached with environmental regulators,

during the course of the EIA process, will be respected and

honoured.

Consultations have and will continue to be held with all

stakeholders at various levels (Federal, State and Local

Governments) together with all communities that will be affected

by the proposed project. Consultation meetings shall be

maintained on a mutually agreed basis.

An Environmental Management programme (EMP) has been

developed as part of the EIA process. The implementation of the

plan will be the responsibility of FMW.

1.9 Implementation Arrangements


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The OBSG Road Project has been initiated and is being carried out by the FMW,

established as an authority, as a part of the Government of Nigeria. The FMW, through

the Director of Roads in the Ministry will be responsible for the effective implementation of

the project activities. Project

Project Implementation Unit (PIU) with a Project Director as its head have been

es tablished. The PlU would p lay a key role in im plementation including the overall control

of construction activities and implementation of contracts. Consultants have been

appointed for carrying out the feasibility study and preparation of the Detailed Project

Reports and designs for the project packages. To ensure the effective implementation of

the project, Construction Supervision Consultants procured under Competitive Bidding

will support the FMW.

To assess, advise and monitor the environmental performance of the various projects

being planned, designed and implemented by the FMW, an Environmental Unit has been

es tablished at the Corporate Headquarter of the Minis try in Abuja. The EnvironmentalUnit is responsible for the co-ordination of the environmental and social issues of the

various project packages and PlU, and work in close interaction with the environmental

manager.


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CHAPTER TWO

2.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

2.1 Declaration

The Federal Ministry of Works (FMW) on behalf of the Federal Government of

Nigeria hereby declares its intention to embark on a road construction project from

Project area traversing one local government area of Askira/Project area in Borno

State.

Planning, construction and operational stages of this project shall involve the

Federal Ministry of Works:

complying with environmental regulations, laws, statues and edicts.

adopt appropriate measures to mitigate identified and predicted adverse

environmental impacts arising from or associated with the project.


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2.2 Project Execution Strategy/Plan

The execution of the road project will be integrated into the overall plan of the

Federal Government to construct more roads in the country. Engineering Design

Report for the project has been prepared. The approved Design will be tendered

and executed in a promptly manner. Field surveys for the conceptual design have

been concluded.

To achieve timely project completion the contracting strategy to be adopted will be

such that the selected contractor executes the detailed engineering, procurement,

construction and commissioning phases of the project.

2.2.1 Implementation Arrangements

The Project area Road Project has been initiated and is being carried out by theFMW, which will be responsible for the effective implementation of the project

activities. Project Directors of the various project units, Project Implementation

Unit (PIU) with a Project Director as its head have been established for the project.

The PlUs would play a key role in implementation including the overall control of

construction activities and implementation of contracts. Consultants have been

appointed to carry out the feasibility study and preparation of the Detailed Project

Reports and designs for the project packages. To ensure the effective

implementation of the project, Construction Supervision Consultants will be

selected to support the FMW supervisors.

To assess, advise and monitor the environmental performance of the various

projects being planned, designed and implemented by the Ministry, an

Environmental Unit has been established at the Corporate Headquarters of the

FMW Abuja. The Environmental Unit is headed by an Assistant Director

(Environment), and is assisted by a manager responsible for Environment and


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Resettlement. The Environmental Unit is responsible for the co-ordination of the

environmental and social issues of the various project and work in close interaction

with the environmental managers of i ts contractors.

2.3 Operations and Maintenance

(a) Operations Philosophy

The road will be operated as an integral part of the existing Federal Road network

in Nigeria. The designs wi ll incorporate features that will guarantee a desired level

of durability.

(b) Maintenance Philosophy

Maintenance philosophy shall be to minimize road failure and safeguard theintegrity of all Federal facilities. The asset management philosophy of

implementation of condition monitoring, preventive maintenance, corrective

maintenance and frontline inspection and maintenance plans will be adopted.

Construction process shall be greatly influenced by the drive to reduce their impact

on the environment and enable compliance with environmental regulations. The

road shall be constructed to a standard that ensures proper management and

canalization of storm water.

2.4 Road Design

The road is designed in accordance with the all relevant engineering standards

and specification enumerated in the document Engineering Design of the Project

area Road Project belonging to the Federal Ministry of Works. It is proposed to be

a two-lane (2 x 3.5m) bituminous carriageway, with paved/unpaved shoulders and

strengthening the existing road by overlays/rehabilitation/reconstruction (including,


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in places replacing the existing bituminous pavement by cement concrete rigid

pavement). Existing cross-drainage structures on the Project area to Mbalala

road are proposed to be repaired/rehabili tated. New cross-drainage structures

would be provided on the new 2-lane carriageway.

In addition to strengthening the existing carriageway, the project would improve the

geometric deficiencies including the improvement of any intersection encountered.

The proposed improvement aims at improving the riding quality, improving journey

speed and reducing traffic on the waterways. It is proposed to provide service

roads, proper drainage, grade-separation, road furniture, utilities and amenities

wherever required. To minimize the adverse impacts on the various settlements

and to minimize the land and structure acquisition, realignments have been

proposed.

2.5 Project Cost Estimates

The unit rates of existing contracts have been used to derive cost estimates based

on a 50/50 time estimate current inflation trends.

2.6 Construction Waste Management

Vegetation cuttings generated from surface bush clearing can be systematically

utilized and disposed as allowed by governmental regulatory agencies. It could be

useful in the construction of dykes and temporal embankments. Local residents

will be allowed to collect any useful material such as firewood.

2.7 Project Justification

The project is needed to enable FMW

increase employment and create new jobs


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Generate additional revenue for the Federal Government of Nigeria through

possible evacuation of agricultural produce

meet its projected future road development plan

expand its existing road network in the country

facilitate linking the areas covered by the road to the national grid

2.8 Envisaged Sustainability

The project is expected to be sustained through proper inspection and routine

maintenance. The funding shall be through Federal Government allocation and

the proposed road tax when implemented.

2.9 Decommissioning/Abandonment

2.9.1 General

When the performance of the road usage scales to diminishing returns, a

decommissioning team is set up to plan and implement the laid down guidelines on

decommissioning by FMW. The following activities are involved in

decommissioning / abandonment:

Demolition and site clean-up;

Disposal of Was tes;

Rehabilitation of Sites.

2.9.2 Demolition and Site Clean-up

The demolition exercise is carried out with skill and diligence to avoid further

damage to the environment. At the end of demolition, various solid wastes are


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sorted according to their types and they are disposed of according to approved

waste disposal methods.

2.9.3 Rehabilitation of Site

After all manners of wastes have been satisfactorily disposed of, the topsoil may

be stripped and replaced with top-soil from un-impacted neighborhood. Seedlings

from the original vegetation are obtained from neighbouring vegetation and planted

as advised by landscaping experts.

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 CONSULTATION PROGRAMME

3.1 Introduction

The Public Consultation has been carried out at various stages of project preparation,

including at the Environmental Screening stage, Feasibility stage and the Environmental

Assessment Preparation stage. Public Consultation was conducted along the various

project major towns including Project area , Wondio, Rumirgo,Yimirali,Askira and Mbalala

Consultation is the process of asking for information about the environmental implications

of projects subject to EIA process, from designated bodies, organizations or persons with

environmental responsibilities or interests, Lee and Wood, (1995). Provisions and

practices relating to consultation, and particularly to e course of public participation, must

be strongly influenced by the culture, the educational level and the political consciousness

in the jurisdiction concerned.


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The project proponent, the Federal Ministry of Works (FMW) consulted wildly with all

stakeholders before embarking on the project

3.2 Objectives of Consultation

The objectives are:

to avoid conflicts by addressing issues promptly,

to ensure that any fears or apprehensions about the project are fully

addressed,

to avoid misunderstanding about full project implementation

to identify and mitigate impacts emanating from the existing project

3.3 Consultation Processes

3.3.1 Stake Holders

Stakeholders are those who are to be affected to varying degrees by the impact of the

proposed project. There are two classes of stake holders- Primary and Secondary. The

primary impact stakeholders range from those communities dotted along the proposed

Project area road.

Secondary impact stakeholders are the Local Government areas responsible for the

welfare of the affected communities, the naturalists, conservationists and theenvironmental NGO groups all over the country.

3.3.2 Institutional Consultation

These are mainly regulatory bodies and are classified into primary regulatory and

secondary regulatory authorities are. FMEn v and DPR are examples of primary

regulatory authorities, while the secondary regulatory authorities are the BornoState EPA

and Relevant Local Government Environmental Authority.


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3.3.3 Public Involvement

The road route and their surrounding environment belong to the communities, hence

consultations were held with them During the meeting, the community was informed that

the purpose of conducting EiA was to comply with statutory requirement.

The Public Consultation has been carried out at various stages of project preparation,

including at the Environmental Screening stage, Feasibility stage and the Environmental

Assessment Preparation stage. Public Consultation was conducted along the various

project major towns including Project area , Wondio, Rumirgo,Yimirali,Askira and Mbalala

respectively).

These included Door-to-Door Personal Interviews, Focus Group Discussions,

Stakeholders and Consultation Sessions. Consultation with the communities resulted in

arriving at design solutions, appropriate and conducive to the felt needs of the people.

Comprehensive documentation about ecosystem components, hotspots and community

networks enabled minimizing the possible impacts.

To redress the environmental issues likely to surface during construction and operational

phases, constant communication needs to be continued. This will be ensured by regular

progress monitoring of the construction and inviting suggestions/ complaints through

grievance redressal.

Meetings will be organized with the project affected people and the various stakeholders

at regular intervals at the potential hotspot/sensitive locations before and during project

implementation.

During the consultations, the communities complained that as a result of lack of good

access road in their area over the years,


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they had lost a lot of their agricultural produce due to lack of adequate

market

they los t some of productive youths to other cities due to emigration,

their farmers have abandoned their farmlands and have become less

productive because everybody want to be seen as government worker.

No evidence of significantly improved quality of life in their community

because of lack of good road liking them with other parts of the country.

3.3.4 Community Consultations

Engineers carried out community consultations in the area. Various community

executives represented their individual communities.

Prior to the consultation process, the team had made arrangements to ensure that

all the relevant parties to the consultation process were well informed in advance

of our purpose of vis it and the nature of project to be executed the following groupswere represented at the consultation sessions:

Community executive council

Youth groups and associations

The women groups and

Community members

Highlights from the consultation process in the study communities include the following:

The objectives of the consultation exercise was explained to all, and

these were: to explain the nature of the project to the communities,

enlighten them on environmental conservation as stakeholders,

solicit for social permit from them to execute the project as it will


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benefit them and thus ensure peaceful and harmonious relationship

between the project team and the benefiting communities.

Attendance at all the consultation were appreciable and cut across

the different strata of the communities

The team was well received at most of the study communities and

On the part of the communities, emphasis was placed on the need

for government to ensure that a competent company of repute is

considered for the project to ensure timely completion and avoid

abandonment of the project midway.

They also want the government to compel the company to consider

some of their youths for employment during project execution.

3.3.5 Future Consultations

Consultation is a continuous process and as such the Federal Ministry of

Works will continue to consult with all the relevant parties concerned, with

all stakeholders or those likely to be affected by its projects at all stages of

the project implementation.


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CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ENVIRONMENT

4.1 GENERAL

This chapter describes the baseline environmental conditions of the entire road

project route. The description of the field study methods and the key findings of the

survey (biophysical, social and health) are presented. It includes data gathered

from literature survey, field study and laboratory analysis. The purpose of this

environmental description is to provide qualitative and quantitative baseline

information on the existing status of the project area against which future

departures as a result of the emplacement of the proposed project will be weighed.

4.2 BASE LINE DATA ACQUISITION METHODS/STUDY APPROACH

4.2.1 Quality Assurance/Quality Control

The quality assurance/quality Control programme covers all aspects of the study,

including sample collection, handling, laboratory analysis, data coding and

manipulation, s tatistical analysis, presenting and communicating results.


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4.2.2 Sampling Strategy

Sampling and data collection for the various environmental components and

parameters were in accordance with recommended procedures and practices for

environmental data collection in Nigeria (FMENV 1992 and DPR, 2002 Part vii D

sampling and handling of samples).

4.2.2.1 Air Quality and Noise Studies.Air pollution is becoming a major factor in the quality of life of urban and

rural dwellers, and it posses risk to both human health and the environment.

Therefore, it is necessary to study the background quality of the air prior to

any project and also to predict the impact such a project would have on the

air quality.

Thus, the following air quality parameters were sampled during the field

work viz: Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Sulphur Oxides (SOX),

Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrogen Sulphides (H2S),

and Hydrocarbon gases using highly sensitive digital in-situ Gas Monitors.

Similaraly, the background noise levels were taken using a portable digital

sound level meter.

4.2.2.2 Meteorological and Climatic Characteristics

The climatic and meteorological characteristics of the area were acquiredfrom exis ting literature.

4.2.2.3 Geological, Geophysical and Hydro-geological Studies

Long spread Schlumberger vertical electrical sounding (VES) were used for

both near surface soil resistivity determination and subsurface stratigraphic

sequence delineation. The test points varied depending on the ease of


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accessibility. Available literature on the geology and hydrogeology of the

road project routes were also reviewed.

4.2.2.4 Aquatic Studies

The hydrology of the project area consists of rivers, creeks and creeklets.

The major water body is the Forcados River. A total of twelve (12) stations

were sampled for water. A water sampler was used to collect water samples

at designated locations. Samples for BOD measurement were collected

Winklers bottles while samples for heavy metals analyses were collected in

glass containers and acidified with concentrated nitric acid to avoid

precipitation. Water samples for microbiology were collected in sterile

MacCartney bottles while water samples for benthos were collected in

plastic containers and preserved in 10% v/v formalin. All samples were

preserved in ice chest (coolers) prior to transportation to the laboratory for

analysis.

Unstable physicochemical parameters of the water such as pH, DO,

temperature, salinity, turbidity and conductivity, were measured in-situ,

using pre-calibrated portable digital meters.

Sediment samples were also collected at the water sampling points using a

grab sampler. Sediment samples for physico-chemical analysis were

collected in Polythene bags while those for microbiological analysis were

collected in Aluminium foil.

Similarly, all the sediment samples were temporarily stored in ice packed

coolers prior to transfer to the laboratory.

Sampling was also carried out for phytoplankton and zooplankton

composition and diversity, in each of 12 (twelve) water-sampling stations.


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Planktons were collected using plankton net. The catches were removed

into a bottle and preserved in 5% formalin.

Benthic samples were collected using an Eckman grab. The bottom

samples were sieved using a set of Tyler s ieves (between 500 650mm).

Data on fisheries and other aquatic resources were collected mostly through

oral interviews with local fishermen. These were complemented with

information from literature studies.

4.2.2.5 Soil Studies

Soil samples were collected from each of the stations with the aid of a Dutch

Hand auger, hand gloves, a spool and hammer at depths of 0 15cm and15 30cm, representing top and bottom samples. These are the soil depths

at which most (>80%) of the plants feeder roots and soil micro-organisms

are concentrated. Thus, most of the soil nutrients useful to plants and soil

micro-organisms are concentrated at these depths.

The samples for microbiological analysis were collected in McCartney

bottles and stored in an ice chest, while samples for hydrocarbon analysis

were collected in glass jars. Samples for physicochemical analysis were

collected in polythene bags.

4.2.2.6 Vegetation.

Visual observations were used to assess the vegetation along the proposed

road routes. Inventory of plants species on either sides of the routes were

taken at about 1km intervals. The characterization, identification and

classification of the plant species and communities were undertaken both at


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the field and with reference to some taxonomic texts. Furthermore, analysis

of plant species within a 10m 2area at each 1km interval was carried out to

determine the density and relative distribution of plant species.

4.2.2.7 Wildlife

This involved a survey/census of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians

along the study areas. Direct count method, using a pair of binoculars, was

employed for the census of the reptiles, birds and other animals which

readily offered themselves for observation. The presence of some of the

animals were ascertained by probing such humid habitat like logs, heaps of

dead decaying leaves, forest undergrowths, ponds and burrows. Thus, all

s ighted, captured or dislodged animals were identified, often on the spot, to

possible taxonomic levels using field guides and keys. (Walkey et al 1968;

Elgood 1960; Happold 1987; Brach 1988). The indirect method which

makes use of evidence of animals presence (Dasmann, 1963) was used for

species which do not offer themselves readily for observation. Such signs ofanimal presence such as burrows, faecal pellets (droppings), hairs, foot

prints or tracks, sloughed skin, devoured food (cassava, yam, oil palm nuts,

etc) as well as vocalization, skeleton/carcass and trampled grass were of

immense use in the course of the investigation. Interviews with hunters also

provided further information on the wildlife diversity, abundance and use in

the areas.

4.2.2.8 Socio-economics

The socioeconomic data gathered comprises historical information,

cultural norms, land tenure and land use pattern, population and

demographic characteristics; health, morbidity, mortality, and fertility,

occupations and income distribution, health social and other

infrastructure. This involved meetings with the communities,

quest ionnaires and oral interviews with local inhabitants.


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4.2.3 Laboratory Analysis

The methods of analysis used were those specified in DPR Guidelines and

Standards and other International Analytical Standards such as APHA for water

quality. Trace metal analysis was carried out using Atomic Absorption

Spectrophotometer duly calibrated with authentic standards. Physicochemical

parameters were determined using the DREL 2000 HACH Spectrophotometer,

duly calibrated with standards, as well as Flame Photometer.

4.2.4 Statistical Analysis

Errors in field data include those resulting from the instrument and those

introduced by the observer. With sustained calibration of the instrument and the

use of standardised observational procedures, equipment errors were brought to

acceptable minimum. However, other errors arise from the m ethod of sampling.

Errors often arise from two-stage sampling or sub sampling, or even from the fact

that the samples collected are not representative samples of the medium. There

are also spatial variations of the same medium, e.g., soil and water. Thus, it is

necessary to determine the true mean and the estimated variance among the

number of samples taken, so as to establish a reasonable level of confidence in

the results obtained. A good result is obtained when the variance is within 5% of

the mean.

4.2.5 Data Coding and Manipulation

To ensure preservation of the integrity of data collected, data coding forms for use

in the field, were designed in such a way that field data could be directly entered

into computer data sheets.

Since their analysis may be required in legal proceedings, it is essential to

es tablish sample authenticity. Samples must be properly sealed and labeled. All

data collected were labeled and the following information provided among others:


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Identification code or sample number,

Date and time of sampling,

Description of sample,

Methods of sampling,

Particulars of any photographs taken.

Where samples were sent to another laboratory for examination, a duplicate copy

of this information was sent along with the sample to the laboratory, independent of

the sample. All movements of the samples were included on the samples record.

Basic information was recorded together with results of analysis, in a register.

4.3 BASELINE RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.3.1 Air Quality and NoiseThe results of air quality measurements for the study areas are presented in the table

below. The monitored pollutant gases include Nitrogen Oxide (NO and NO2), Sulphur

dioxide (SO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and hydrocarbon gases

(HC) and suspended particulate matter (SPM). Generally, the concentrations of the

measured air pollutants in the ambient atmosphere suggest that the area is a relatively

pristine environment. More so, the values recorded were not significantly different and

were within acceptable regulatory limits, where detected. Result of air quality studies and

regulatory limits are presented in tables 4.3.1.1 4.3.1.4 below.

4.3.1.1 Nitrogen Oxide

Nitrogen oxides are products of high temperature combustion like vehicle engines,

domestic fires and industrial combustions. The Nitrogen Oxides of interest are nitric oxide

(NO2) and nitrons oxide (NO). Studies have shown that man or animal exposure to NO2


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concentration above 0.563ppm may cause pulmonary diseases and increased

susceptibility to bacterial infection (ACGIH, 1995). Concentrations of NO2measured in

the area ranged from below detectable limit to 0.05 ppm and averaged 0.028 + 0.02 ppm.

Similarly, the concentrations of NO ranged from below detectable limit to 0.06 ppm.

Generally, the concentrations of the nitrogen oxides were below the maximum

permissible FMEnv. Limits of 0.075 to 0.113 ppm for daily average of 1-hour values. This

shows that no significant high temperature combustion of Nitrogen oxides was going on

along the project routes during the study.

4.3.1.2 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

SO2is a more important oxide of sulphur as a primary pollutant, and is formed from the

oxidation of sulphur containing fuels.

Exposure to SO2at concentrations above 13.0 ppm could stimulate broncho-constriction

(as in asthma), mucus secretion, and eye irritation in man and other animals (ACGIH,

1995). Long-term exposure to lower concentrations may result in death from cardiac

and/or respiratory diseases and increased prevalence of related symptoms. Also,

atmospheric Sulphur dioxide is oxidized forming sulphuric acid. Sulphuric acid may be

incorporated into rain or dry-deposited as fine droplets and in doing so, causes

acidification of soils and surface waters. This is termed acid rain.

SO2 were generally not detected in the area i.e. below the equipment detection limit,

during s tudy.

4.3.1.3 Carbon Monoxide.

Carbon Monoxide is a product of incomplete combustion (oxidation) of fossil fuels or

hydrocarbons. Ambient accumulation of CO of values greater than 228ppm could lead to


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suffocation and death as a result of the prevention of blood oxygenation and the formation

of carboxy-haemoglobin (OSHA 1989).

The measured CO values at the field range from 0.06ppm to 0.13 ppm, with an average

of 0.088 + 0.025 ppm. The values were within FMEnv. lim it of 11.40 ppm for daily

average of hourly values in Nigeria.

4.3.1.4 Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S)

Hydrogen Sulphide gas is extrem ely toxic, odorous and corrosive and m ay be formed

during the oxidation or combustion of Sulphur containing fuels, mainly coal containing

Sulphur in the presence of air (oxygen). Exposure to concentrations above 0.15 ppm

could result in death (SIEP, 1995). H2S were generally not detected (below detection

limits) at the field during the study.

4.3.1.5 Hydrocarbons (HC)

The sources of atmospheric hydrocarbon gases include incomplete combustion of fuels,

fugitive emissions and vents. The primary hydrocarbon contaminants include aromatics,

olefins, and paraffins, while the secondary contaminants include aldehydes, ketones,

and organic acids. The permissible limit is 0.160 ppm for daily average of 3 hourly

values. Mos t of the incomplete combustion products are very toxic, and exposure to

hydrocarbon gases above permissible limits could cause certain types of cancer and

leukemia (SIEP, 1995).

However, the field hydrocarbon gases concentration were very low and below the

maximum permissible limit. The values ranged from 0.001 to 0.002ppm (mean = 0.0016

+ 0.0007 ppm). This implies that no significant activity leading to hydrocarbon emission

was taking place in the vicinity of the project routes.

4.3.1.6 Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)


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This comprises of light materials, solid and liquid matter of organic or inorganic

composition (usually dust and other particles) found suspended in the atmosphere, and

carried around by wind. The FMEnv regulatory limit for SPM is 0.250 ppm for daily

average of 1-hour values. Ambient concentrations of SPM above this in Nigeria may

cause or aggravate respiratory problems such as cough and asthma. However, the

measured SPM values were very low, probably because activity/vehicular movement

goes on in the area was minimal. The values ranged from 0.062 ppm to 0.089 ppm

(mean = 0.075 + 006 ppm).

4.3.1.7 Noise

Prolonged exposure to noise of frequencies higher than regulatory limits can result in

temporary loss of hearing (temporary threshold shift), which disappears in a few hours or

days, or permanent loss (permanent threshold shift). The FMEnv permissible noise limitfor an 8-hour working period is 90dB. The measured noise levels at the proposed project

routes were low and mostly within natural background status of 20 to 50dB. The

contributing sources of the recorded noise levels include singing birds, other wild animals

within the vicinity of the project site, passing motor vehicles and community inhabitants

activities. The levels however were also within FMEnv permissible limits and ranged from

41.7 dB(A) to 67.7 dB(A), averaging 48.04 + 7.45 dB(A).


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Environmental Impact Assessment of Ojobo- Bomadi-Siama- Gbekebor Road Project


Table 4.3.1.1 : Results of Air Quality and Noise Studies for the EIA of the Areas.

PARAMETER (ppm)

NO2 NO SO2 CO H2S HC SPM

NOISE

dB(A)

0.03 0.05 BDL 0.17 BDL 0.001 0.021 51.7

BDL BDL BDL 0.11 BDL 0.002 0.024 67.7

0.03 0.06 BDL 0.08 BDL 0.001 0.012 46.7

0.01 BDL BDL 0.07 BDL 0.002 0.021 77.5

0.02 0.03 BDL 0.05 BDL 0.002 0.020 50.8

0.02 0.04 BDL 0.10 BDL 0.001 0.018 46.8

0.05 0.05 BDL 0.06 BDL 0.003 0.029 53.9

0.03 0.05 BDL 0.08 BDL 0.001 0.016 51.2

0.02 0.04 BDL 0.07 BDL 0.001 0.016 48.5

0.04 0.05 BDL 0.10 BDL 0.001 0.025 41.7

0.02 0.04 BDL 0.08 BDL 0.001 0.018 44.6

0.02 0.05 BDL 0.07 BDL 0.001 0.018 44.6

0.028+

0.02

0.035+

0.22BDL

0.088 +0.025

BDL

0.0016 +

0.0007

0.022+

0.006

58.04 +7.45

0.075-

0.113

0.075

0.113

BDL 11.4 - 0.160 0.250 90.0

BDL = Below Detectable Limited (Not Detected)


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Table 4.3.1.2: Nigerian Ambient Air Quality Standards (FMEnv, 1991)

Pollutant Time of Average Limit

Particulates Daily average of 1hr values 250 g/m3- *600 g/m3

Sulphur oxides(Sulphur dioxide)

Daily average of 1hr values 0.01 ppm (26 g/m3) -

ppm (260 g/m3)

Non-methane hydrocarbon Daily average of 3hr values 160 g/m3

Carbon monoxide Daily average of hourly valu

8hr average

10 ppm (11.4 g/m3)

20 ppm (22.8

g/m

3

)

Nitrogen oxides (Nitrogen dioxide) Daily average of hourly valu(range)

0.4 ppm - 0.06 ppm(75.0g/m

3- 113 g/m

3)

Photochemical oxidant Hourly values 0.06 ppm

*Concentrations not to be exceeded for more than once a year.

Table 4.3.1.3 Noise Exposure Limits For Nigeria.

Duration per Day, Hour Permissible Exposure Limit

(dBA)

8 906 92

4 953 97

2 1001.5 102

1 1050.5 110

0.25 or less 115

Source: FEPA National Standards and Guide lines (1991).


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Table 4.3.1.4: Ambient Concentrations of Heavy metal Pollutants in Air at

Some Locations In The Study Area (mg/m3)

Air Sampling PointFe Mn Cd Cr Ni V Zn Hg

0.056

0.004

0.006


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42/168



Table 4.3.2 below gives a summary of the extreme weather conditions in the area.

Parameter Mean

Temperature 34.5oC

Relative Humidity 30%

Wind

Speed

Direction

2.7m/s

Northeast

Rainfall 890mm

4.3.3 Soil

4.3.3.1 Soil Fertility Evaluation

The samples picked from the field were subjected to physical and chemical analysis

for fertility evaluation. This evaluation is based on the classification of ISRIC (1995)

and other earlier investigations (Enwezor et al, 1981). Table 4.3.3.1 and 4.3.3.2

show the mean values of the soil physical and chemical parameters respectively.

4.3.3.2 Soil Physical Properties

The soil physical properties are mostly optimum for arable crop production except

for their sandy nature in some areas. The bulk densities of the soils are generally

very low (0.48-0.57 g/cm3). Also, the hydraulic conductivity values range from 43.0-

51.2 S/cm and 42.0-51.1S/cm at the top and bottom soil respectively. There is

relatively easy passage of water through the soils. The characteristic almost flat to

very gentle slope (0-1.3%) of most of the landscape and the sandy nature of the

soils enhance their susceptibility to erosion and further loss of fertility. The major

factors responsible for the low nutrient status of the soil include poor fertility

maintenance practices (e.g. burning of farm residues and over cropping) and the

high pressure on the available little land.


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i.) Particle Size Analysis

The results of the particle size analysis of soil samples are presented in table

4.3.3.1. Evaluation of the field and laboratory analytical results of the soils shows

that the texture of soils in the field was mainly Loamy Sand and Sandy loam with

the Sand particles dominating the aggregates. The percent sand ranged from

56.9% to 76.1%, averaging about 67.57% and the top samples (0-15cm depths)

have more sand particles than the bottom or lower (15-30cm depths). Clay

particle had the least composition of between 2.4% to 18.6%. It had a mean

percent composition of 9.54%, which increased down the profile (Table4.3.3.1).

The highest percent clay was recorded at Bomadi. The higher values of clay at

the lower horizons could be attributed to the loss of these particles by the water

in filtration down the soil profile (Opara Nadi and Juo, 1986).

ii.) Porosity

In general, the porosity of the soils in the area was moderately high with a range

of 47-75% for the 0-15cm depth and 40-66% for the 15-30cm depths. Unlike the

bulk density, the porosity is higher on the surface. There was no area in the field

where the total porosity was within 9-10% that would have resulted in inadequate

supply of oxygen for good root development at field capacity.

iii.) Water Holding Capacity (WHC)

The WHC of the soils in the fields ranged from 10 - 70% in the top soil and 20-

45% in the lower 15-30cm depths. The upper depths recorded higher values as

a result of higher organic carbon, which increased the ability of the soils to hold

more water. Organic Carbon increases the ability of the soils to hold water.

4.3.3.3 Chemical Properties

i.) pH- soil Reaction

The soils in the study areas are acidic (pH 5.53-5.9) both at the top and bottom

sapmles. This conforms to the findings of earlier workers (Ogunkunle, 1982; SSSN,

1981), who classified the soils of similar hydrogen ion concentrations as "acid

sands. The mean soil pH value for the upper (top Soil) 0-15cm depths washigher than the lower depths. (Table 4.3.3.2). This could be due to the higher


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organic matter, which contain exchangeable bases in the upper layers. The

acidic nature of these soils could be ascribed to the low rainfall of this area.

ii.) Exchangeable Cations (Na, K, Ca & Mg)

Calcium and sodium are the most abundant cations in the soil exchange

complex. This finding is in agreement with the observation that calcium is the

predominant cation in the soil complex because of its strong adsorption by the

soil (Beckeh, 1965). Magnesium and potassium were also abundant in the soils

in varying quantities. The values for calcium range from 2.41-4.63 meq/100g soil

in the 0-15cm and 2.83-4.71 meq/100g soil for the lower 15-30cm depths

respectively thus Calcium was followed by Sodium with a value in the range of

2.01-4.11meq/100g soil at the surface and 2.0-4.45 meq/100g soil at the

subsurface. Potassium is the least abundant exchangeable bases ranging form

0.01 0.09 meq/100g soil at the subsurface.

The contents of these cations were higher in the sub- soils than in the surface

soils and showed a high positive correlation with organic carbon. Generally, theexchangeable bases, like the other nutrients, were high and above the 2.0

meq/100g soil of Ca and Mg required of a good soil in Nigeria and 0.2 meq/100g

soil for K and therefore will require straight Mg and K fertilization for optimum

crop production.

The mean values of the exchangeable cations were above the 2 meq/100g soil of

magnesium, calcium and 0.2 meq/100g of Potassium required for good crop

performance in most Nigerian soils (Odu et al, 1985).

Similarly, the anions SO4and NO3were detected in the ranges of 0.11-0.23 and2.24-4.31mg/kg.

iv.) Total Organic Carbon and Nitrogen

The Total Organic Carbon and total nitrogen are contained in Table 4.3.3.2.

While the values of organic matter could be said to be high considering the value

adjudged high (>1.45%) by Sobulo and Adepetu, (1987) the same can not be


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said of total nitrogen. The organic carbon value ranged from 0.84 2.88% with

higher values recorded mostly on the surface (0-15cm) samples. This may be as

result of the dense mass of decayed mangrove roots about 60cm thick in the

soils. The range of total nitrogen values was 4.60 8.33mg/kg with a mean of

about 6.2mg/kg. These soils were taken from project area with good ground

cover, which reduced raindrop erosion and leaching of mobile nutrients like

nitrogen. Nitrogen is the most important nutrient of plants and like the organic

carbon, the values in the field are generally high. This could be due to high

organic carbon contents (Agboola and Curey, 1973). Overall, except at some few

points with TOC values below the 1.5% critical level of Adepetu (1986), the rest

values are above 1.5% and high enough to maintain optimum yield of continuous

cropping of the land.

However, the total nitrogen contents showed a very high positive correlation with

organic carbon indicating that the reserve of this element was mainly in organic

matter (Okusami, 1986).

V.) Heavy Metals and hydrocarbon contents

According to the international standard, (Nature Conservancy Council NCC,

1991) and FEPA (1991) guidelines, the heavy metals contents of the soils are

generally below the critical levels to constitute hazard. The heavy metal

concentrations of the fields are shown in Table 4.3.3.3. The values of these

metals are low which is an indication that industrial activities especially oil

activities are low along these routes. Despite the low acidity, the Iron and Mn

concentrations are low an indication that there are no pyrites in these soils (Dent,

1986). FAO (1972) reported that high value of Iron is peculiar to poorly drained

soils and a concentration of 20ppm has been reported to be toxic to rice plants

(Kyuma et al, 1986). Extremely high values, more than 1 x 104ppm will be very

toxic to crop plants.

The Iron concentration was the highest among the heavy metals and the values

ranged from 5.94mg/kg in Project area to 16.61mg/kg in Mbalala. Generally, the

values were below 20mg/kg, considered toxic for rice as reported by Kosaki and


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Juo (1986). Next to Iron in abundance are Zinc (Zinc has been reported to be

involved in root-to-shoot translocation) and Manganese (Manganese is required

for sporulation in Aspergillus niger). Soils in the mangrove areas are known to

record high value of zinc. A 1.5 ppm critical level of Zn is reported by

Ponnamperuma (1974)and most values exceeded this limit. Toxicity of Mn can

be suspected if more than 100ppm. Mn is present in plant dry matter (Bear,

1965). The values ranged from 1.32 3.68mg/kg in the soil samples from the

study route. These values are within the accepted range for optimum crop

production. In a descending order of abundance, the heavy concentrations can

be written as follows: Fe>Zn>Mn>Cd> Cu > Ni >Cr>V>Pb.

Table 4.3.3.1: SUMMARY OF PARTICL E SIZE ANALYSIS OF SOILS FROM THE STUDY

AREAS

LOCATION DEPTH(Cm)

% CLAY % SILT % SAND TEXTURALCLASS

Project area -1 0-15 6.3 07.9 76.1 Loamy Sand

Pro ject area -2 15-30 10.2 14.8 62.2 Sandy LoamProject area -3 0-15 12.4 25.3 62.4 Sandy Loam

Project area -4 15-30 5.4 33.8 60.8 Sandy LoamWomdio-1 0-15 2.6 14.9 72.3 Loamy Sand

Womdio-2 15-30 5.5 23.9 60.7 Sandy LoamRumirgo 0-15 12.4 15.4 62.6 Sandy LoamYimir-Ali 15-30 12.4 15.2 62.4 Sandy Loam

Askira-1 0-15 2.6 14.9 72.3 Loamy SandAsskira-2 15-30 6.2 17.6 75.8 Loamy SandMbalala-1 15-30 5.5 23.9 60.7 Sandy Loam

Mbalala-2 0-15 6.4 17.9 75.9 Loamy Sand


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Environmental Impact Assessment of Ojobo- Bomadi-Siama- Gbekebor Road Projec

Draft Report. Version: 01

Table 4.3.3.2: Results of Chemical Properties of Soils in the Fields

Meq/100g

Location

identity

DEPTH(CM)

pH(H2O)

EC(s/cm)

T.Nitorgen

mg/kg

NO3

-

NO2

-

NH4N

SO4

2+

Organic

Carbon%

PO4

EA

K

0-15 4.80 50.6 5.04 2.39 2.81 0.15 0.12 2.84 3.82 0.02 2.00 0.06

15-30 4.80 50.4 5.04 2.38 2.81 0.14 0.14 2.28 3.82 0.03 2.03 0.06

0-15 4.53 44.0 6.03 3.22 3.10 0.08 0.23 1.36 2.44 0.02 2.05 0.06

15-30 4.88 46.4 7.56 4.11 3.29 0.07 0.20 0.85 2.29 0.04 2.17 0.08

0-15 4.62 44.2 8.35 4.31 3.80 0.03 0.12 2.03 2.13 0.03 2.25 0.09

15-30 4.66 44.2 8.35 4.31 3.80 0.03 0.13 2.02 2.13 0.02 2.27 0.08 0-15 4.80 50.6 5.04 2.39 2.81 0.15 0.11 2.84 3.82 0.04 3.11 0.05

15-30 4.53 44.0 6.03 3.22 3.10 0.08 0.12 1.36 2.44 0.04 3.41 0.08

0-15 4.88 46.40 7.56 4.11 3.29 0.07 0.20 0.85 2.29 0.04 2.50 0.09

15-30 4.62 44.24 8.35 4.31 3.80 0.03 0.21 2.03 2.13 0.03 2.11 0.06

0-15 4.66 44.20 8.35 4.31 3.80 0.03 0.22 2.02 2.13 0.03 4.11 0.06

15-30 4.57 50.2 5.01 2.24 2.41 0.08 0.22 2.42 2.80 0.03 4.43 0.08


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Environmental Impact Assessment of Ojobo- Bomadi-Siama- Gbekebor Road Projec

Draft Report. Version: 01

Table 4.3.3.3: Results of Heavy Metal Analysis of Soils from the Fields

Sample LocationSoilSamplingDepth (Cm)

mg/kgFe Mn Cu Cr Pb

0-15 14.64 3.13 0.09 0.06 0.06 0.115-30 12.48 2.13 0.22 0.06 0.06 0.1

0-15 16.52 2.18 0.11 0.09 0.02 0.115-30 6.95 2.05 0.19 0.08 0.13 0.1

0-15 12.31 1.42 0.07 0.08 0.01 0.1

15-30 14.34 1.62 0.11 0.07 0.01 0.10-15 15.45 2.17 0.01 0.08 0.05 0.1

15-30 6.83 2.04 0.02 0.06 0.12 0.10-15 14.44 1.32 0.06 0.09 0.13 0.1

15-30 16.61 1.34 0.08 0.06 0.05 0.10-15 16.43 2.14 0.12 0.07 0.02 0.1

15-30 6.94 1.90 0.11 0.09 0.03 0.1


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ENGINEERING CONSU LTANT

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

4.3.3.4 Sediment StudiesThe summary (in mean and range) of the physico-chemical characteristics of thesediments in the study area is presented in table 4.3.3.4.1.

The sediments are slightly acidic to almost neutral with pH range of 5.23 6.97. the fertilitylevel of the sediments had ranges of 0.01 0.070, 0.46 20.47, 0.63 7.21, 0.18 2.22,0.09 1.02, 0.02 0.40meg/100g, 5.30 41.0, 18.10 72.0ppm. The oil and greasecontent of the sediment samples are Not Detected.

The heavy metals have a wide range of concentrations ranging as follows: Fe; 0.0412 32.31, Mn; 1.60 269.31, Zn; 1.10 09.86, Ni; 0.10 4.62, Pb; 1.90 4.02, and Cu; 0.70 5.03. These results were almost similar to those for soil.

Table 4.3.3.4.1: Summary of the Physico-chemical/Heavy Metals Characteristics of

the Sediments in the Study area.

S/N Parameter Range

1. pH 5.23 6.972 Sand % 31 963 Silt % 2 38

4. Clay % 2 425 % Organic Matter 0.80 5.166. % Total Nitrogen 0.01 0.07

7. Phosphorus (ppm) 0.46 20.478. Exch. Ca (meg/100g) 0.63 7.219. Mg (meg/100g) 0.18 2.2210 K (meg/100g) 0.09 1.02

11. Na (meg/100g) 0.02 0.4012. Exch. Acidity (meg/100g) 0.40 0.7013 Al uminium (ppm) 5.30 41.0

14 Sulphate (ppm) 18.10 -72.0015. Chloride 6.0 21.0016. ECEC 4.60 9.47

17. Oil & grease (ug/g) ND 720.9518. Fe (ug/g) 0.0412 32.313

19. Mn (ug/g) 1.60 269.3120 Zn (ug/g) 1.10 9.86

21. Ni (ug/g) 0.10 4.6222. Pb (ug/g) 1.90 4.0223. Cd (ug/g) 0.27 0.45

24. Cu (ug/g) 0.70 5.03

4.3.4 Land UseOver the millennia, land use had been determined by tenurial systems evolved over timeand determined by the perceived demand as well as the potential and actual socialpressure associated with its supply and use (Powel, 1995; Swallow and Kamara, 2000).


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As in the case of most communities in the Borno State, land ownership is vested infamilies and communities, rather than on individuals (Alagoa and Tamuno, 1989).

4.3.4.1: Land Use and Agricultural Systems:The land use types in Project area is for agriculture during the raining season. The

settlement is large (about 450 1000 houses) although some are provided with modern

facili ties such as schools, electricity and dispensaries. The main source of water for

domestic use is through wells and borehole. A group number of wells are dug at the

same location to provide suitable drinkable water for the community. There are little or no

much economic trees.

Agriculture is practiced on a small scale at the out sketch of the villages or on the opposite

bank. Crops grown are mainly arables. Small parts of the available land at the areas are

cultivated to food crops mainly guinea corn and millet. About 20-45% of the land is made up

of homesteads and the surrounding compound farms. Livestock is kept at the homestead

level except Fulani cattle rearers who moves around as usual with their cattle.

i.) Farming Systems

The traditional farming system in the study area is made up of land rotation with multiple

cropping systems. These crop production techniques have been developed by the peasant

farmers as conservation farming techniques under the minimum tillage practices

commonly adopted by the farmers in the study area. The major farm implements are hoes

and cutlasses, which can provide food for the farmers at subsistence level. The household

farm size is small (5-7.0ha) and fragmented.

ii.) Livestock

Most households keep some poultry birds on a free-range basis. Less than 65% of the

farmers keep sheep and goats because of the nearness of the farms to the housesteads.

Those farmers that can provide fence keep 2-3 goats or sheep and the children and

women provide browse plants for the animals. The animals are sometimes led to graze the

patches of grass, mainly Panicummaximum. The Fulani communities within the area

moves around with their cattle.


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iii.) Land Clearing, Land Preparation and Crop Establishment

Land clearing and land preparation are usually done by men while planting, weeding andharvesting operations are left to mainly women and children with men occasionally in

attendance. Period of cultivation depends mainly on rain establishment but usually Crops

are planted from March to September.

iv.) Cropping Patterns/Systems

The cropping pattern in the study area consists, mainly of mixed cropping with varying

number of crops in the mixtures.

The cropping systems involve compound farms, guinea corn-based, groundnut-based and

millet-based cropping systems.

v.) Compound Farms

The homesteads are surrounded with crops that are of immediate importance to the

household members. Such crops include: mango (Mangifera indica), oranges (Citrusspp.)

and cashew, vegetable crops.

The component crops in the compound farm are not planted in any definite pattern or

sequence. Manure is supplied to the crops from the household wastes.

vi.) Grain Based Systems

Farmers in the study area generally practice grain-based cropping system. The practice of

growing several crops on the same piece of land is an ancient strategy for crop production

among farmers in the tropics. Ruthenberg (1971) noted that mixed cropping is an

expression of African farmers desire to minimize risk. The system offers farmers insurance

against total crop failure. It brings about even distribution of farm labour. It also helps to

control soil erosion and weeds (Ikeorguet al, 1989).


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4.3.4 Vegetation (Aquatic and Terrestrial)

The vegetation pattern of the region is closely related to the soil distribution. This

derived from the fact that both, overtime, have been largely influenced by the nature

of the sediments, drainage characteristics as well as the prevailing climatic

conditions of the region.

4.3.4.1 Plant Species Composition

The study area lies within the lowland savanna zone ecosystem. Natural vegetation covers

less than 5% of the land area and even then it is largely degraded.(Tables 4.3.4.1 4.3.4.4).

The commonest plants within the zone consist of trees such as Adansonia digitata

(kuka),vitex domiana (dinya), which provide edible fruits and leaves, diospyros

mespiliformis (kanya), tamarindusindica (tsamiya), moringaoleifera (zogale).

Others species found in the area are parkia clappertoniana (dorawa) Anogeissus

Leicarpus (Marke) khaya segalensis (madaci) it is a good timber, fuel wood, medicinal and

provides fodder in the dry season.

Ziziphusspina-chrili (kurna), hyphaene the baica (goriba), Borrasusaethiopum (Giginya)

balanites aegyptiaca (Aduwa), acacia Senegal (dakwara) acacia nilotica (bagaruwa),

acavia seyal (dushe), acaciaalbida (gawo), guierasenegalensis (sabara), hyphaenethe

bacia (kaba) and piliostigmathonningii (kalgo). Stable crops such as millet, guinea corn,

groundnut dominate the farms. Some farmers however go into the high bushto make new

farms because of better state of soil fertility.

4.3.4.2 Vegetation Structure


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The vegetation of the project area traversed by theoosed route consist of shrubs and grass

layer with minor tree components. The distribution of trees, shrubs grasses vary depending

on location and soil/ bedrock (e.g trees are more prominent on sand soils whereas in areasof shallow soils over bedrock, grasses and shrubs are the more dominant vegetation).

Thorny shrubs such as Xeromphis nilotica and woody climbers (or spreading shrubs)

comreum micrathum and capparis corymbosa are abundant in this zone. The woody

climbers are also abundant often suppressing the herb layer on rock hills, which are not

grazed. The grasses are short (1.0 to 1.5m tall) and feathery in constrast to the Guinea

savannna grasses. Two distinct tree types occur in this zone

1.Large trees (8m to 15 tall) with wide spreading crowns (Anogeissus Leicarpus,

Sclerocaraya spp., Bal

971375 environmental impact assessment of typical road project

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