ABSTRACT
The Niger Delta environment is under serious threat due to heavy metal pollution. Many studies have been conducted on the heavy metal contamination in soils, water, seafood and plants in the Niger Delta ecosystem. However, there is a lack of clear understanding of the health consequences for people and strategies for attaining One Health, and a dispersion of information that is accessible. The study focused on investigating the contamination levels, distributions, risks, sources and impacts of heavy metals in selected regions of the Niger Delta. Prior studies revealed that the levels of certain heavy metals, including Cd, Pb, Cu, Cr, Mn, Fe and Ni, in water, sediment, fish and plants in most Niger Delta ecosystems were higher than the acceptable threshold attributed to various anthropogenic stressors. In the reviewed Niger Delta states, ecosystems in Rivers state showed the highest concentrations of heavy metals in most sampled sites. Groundwater quality was recorded at concentrations higher than 0.3 mg/L World Health Organization drinking water guideline. High concentrations of copper (147.915 mg/L) and zinc (10.878 mg/L) were found in Rivers State. The heavy metals concentrations were greater in bottom-dwelling organisms such as bivalves, gastropods and shrimp than in other fishery species. Heavy metal exposure in the region poses risks of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Diverse remediation methods are crucial to reduce contamination levels, but comprehensive strategies and international cooperation are essential to address the health hazards. Actively reducing heavy metals in the environment can achieve One Health objectives and mitigate disease and economic burdens.
