Residents’ Perceptions of NTA-AIT Coverage of Artisanal Refining’s Environmental Impact in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Artisanal refining has been on the increase in certain areas in Rivers State. As a result, local communities have resorted to illicit oil refining as a means of survival, despite the associated risks and environmental consequences. This has created a challenge for authorities seeking to balance economic development, environmental protection, and public safety concerns. Authorities and environmental experts have utilised the media to raise awareness and deter this practice. This study examined residents’ perceptions of NTA and AIT’s Coverage of the environmental impact of Artisanal Refining in Rivers State. Anchoring on perception and cognitive 
dissonance theories, the study adopted a survey as the research design. Using Meyer’s sample size determination template, a sample size of 322 was drawn from a population of 2,914. The questionnaire served as an instrument with the purposive and accidental sampling techniques adopted. The method of data analysis adopted for this research was descriptive. Findings showed that Ibaa residents had a positive perception of the coverage, with 247 (83.4%) reporting it. Also, the coverage influenced how residents of Ibaa Community perceived the environmental issues of artisanal refining, representing 271 (91.5%). It concludes that the television coverage of the environmental effects of artisanal refining in Rivers State showed a relationship between perception and influence as variables. The researchers recommend, among others, that media houses in their coverage continue to give an in-depth analysis of the environmental effects of artisanal refining in order to influence the audience’s behaviour.