Dr. Adanma M. Uwaga’s Research on Isingwu Watershed Highlights Environmental, Socio-Economic Challenges in Nigeria

By Rebecca Ejifoma

The Isingwu Watershed, located in Umuahia – North, Abia State, Nigeria, has been a crucial environmental resource for generations. However, unchecked deforestation, urban expansion, and human activities have placed immense pressure on this fragile ecosystem, threatening its sustainability and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. In an extensive and pioneering study from the Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Dr. Adanma M. Uwaga presents a comprehensive socio-ecological assessment of the watershed, spanning 30 years, to uncover the extent of environmental degradation and propose sustainable conservation strategies.

Speaking about the motivation for her research, Dr. Uwaga stated, “The Isingwu Watershed is a lifeline for communities in Umuda, Amafor, and Umumgbokwo. For decades, this ecosystem has supported agriculture, water supply, and biodiversity. However, human activities are causing unprecedented damage, and the urgency to document and mitigate these effects cannot be overstated. My research was driven by the need to provide scientific evidence that can support conservation efforts and policymaking.”

Assessing 30 Years of Environmental Transformation
Utilizing satellite imagery analysis, field surveys, and socio-economic assessments, Dr. Uwaga meticulously examined land cover changes, biodiversity shifts, soil and water quality variations, and the socio-economic impact of these transformations. The results of her research are both revealing and alarming.

According to Dr. Uwaga, “Over the past three decades, I have observed a staggering 59.35% reduction in water expanse. This means that what was once a thriving water system is shrinking at an alarming rate. Additionally, my research found that built-up areas have expanded, replacing farmlands and forested zones. The consequences of these changes affect not only the natural environment but also the people who depend on it.”

Her study found that deforestation has reached critical levels, with Umumgbokwo experiencing an 83% loss in tree cover. “One of the most troubling aspects of my research is the extent of tree loss,” Dr. Uwaga noted. “The removal of trees at this scale leads to soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and reduced water retention. Without intervention, the Isingwu Watershed will face irreversible damage.”

Socio-Economic Consequences of Environmental Decline
Beyond the ecological impact, Dr. Uwaga’s research focused on how these changes have affected the livelihoods and daily lives of local communities. Through a structured survey of 60 residents, she documented a dramatic shift in how people interact with the watershed.

“When I asked people about their water use, an overwhelming 98.3% reported that they no longer fetch drinking water from the river,” Dr. Uwaga explained. “This is a drastic change from the past, when the watershed was a primary source of clean water. Additionally, 72% of respondents have stopped gathering firewood for sale, and 54.4% no longer engage in fishing. These statistics tell a compelling story about how environmental degradation directly affects livelihoods.”

She added, “The communities around the Isingwu Watershed have historically depended on this ecosystem for economic sustenance. When natural resources decline, it triggers a chain reaction that impacts food security, economic stability, and even cultural traditions.”

Declining Biodiversity and Habitat Loss
A critical element of Dr. Uwaga’s study was the assessment of plant diversity within the watershed. Over multiple survey periods, she documented significant shifts in tree, shrub, herb, liana, climber, and fern species.

“Biodiversity loss is happening before our eyes,” Dr. Uwaga warned. “My research found that the total number of plant species, species richness, and abundance have all declined over time. The degradation of plant life affects not only the environment but also the stability of the food chain and local ecosystems.”

Her findings also revealed that while some vegetation still thrives, the overall distribution and density of species have changed dramatically.

“Many native species that were once abundant are now struggling to survive,” Dr. Uwaga noted. “If urgent conservation measures are not taken, we risk losing key plant species that are vital to the watershed’s ecological integrity.”

Assessing Water and Soil Quality
Apart from land cover and biodiversity, Dr. Uwaga’s research conducted a detailed examination of soil and water quality, comparing seasonal variations and long-term trends.

“Water quality is a major concern,” Dr. Uwaga stated. “Although most water parameters, such as pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and essential minerals, fall within WHO-permissible limits, turbidity levels in all three communities exceed safe thresholds. This means that sedimentation and pollution are affecting water clarity and safety.”

Similarly, soil quality assessments showed significant changes over time. Dr. Uwaga explained, “My research found variations in soil fertility, with erosion and agricultural runoff contributing to the depletion of essential nutrients. Soil degradation not only affects plant life but also has severe implications for agricultural productivity in the region.”

Proposed Solutions and Conservation Strategies
In response to these alarming findings, Dr. Uwaga advocates for a multi-faceted conservation approach, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, strict watershed monitoring, reforestation initiatives, and policy interventions.

“If we want to save the Isingwu Watershed, we need to act now,” Dr. Uwaga urged. “This means implementing reforestation programs, promoting sustainable land use, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts. The people living in these areas must be at the center of any conservation strategy, as they are both the primary beneficiaries and the key stakeholders.”

She also calls on policymakers to enforce environmental regulations and allocate resources for watershed restoration.

“Government agencies and environmental bodies must take proactive steps to protect our watersheds,” Dr. Uwaga emphasized. “Without proper regulation and funding, we will continue to see uncontrolled deforestation, soil degradation, and water depletion.”

A Call to Action for Policymakers, Researchers, and Environmentalists
As climate change and human activities accelerate environmental degradation, Dr. Uwaga believes that scientific research must play a critical role in guiding conservation policies and sustainable development.

“This study is more than just an academic contribution—it is a call to action,” Dr. Uwaga stated. “We need interdisciplinary collaborations between scientists, policymakers, and local communities to develop effective conservation strategies. The Isingwu Watershed is just one of many ecosystems at risk, and we must ensure that future generations inherit a sustainable environment.”

She also highlights the need for further research and investment in watershed management across Nigeria.

“Nigeria has numerous watersheds facing similar challenges,” Dr. Uwaga noted. “We must invest in more research, environmental education, and conservation initiatives to protect our natural resources before it is too late.”

Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the significance of her research, Dr. Uwaga reiterates the urgency of environmental conservation and sustainable land management.

“We must take immediate steps to reverse the damage to our watersheds,” she concluded. “Every tree cut down, every polluted water source, and every lost species has a lasting impact. The time for action is now.”

Her thesis, housed in the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Repository, serves as a foundational resource for environmental researchers, conservationists, and policymakers.