Evaluation of the recovery of mangroves in Apparambie creek, Niger delta, 9 years after chronic pollution

This study evaluated the recovery status of mangrove vegetation in Apparanbie Creek, Niger Delta, nine years after chronic petroleum pollution. The assessment focused on mangrove structural growth, species composition, and sediment contamination in order to determine the extent of ecological recovery. Three sampling stations were established along the creek, and three mangrove trees were measured per station. Mangrove height and stem girth were measured as indicators of structural development, The results show that mangroves at Station C recorded the highest mean height (8.08 m) and girth (15.64cm), followed by Station B (6.92 m) and girth (11.73cm) , while Station A had the lowest mean height (6.31m) and girth (9.64cm). The findings indicate that Apparanbie Creek is undergoing partial ecological recovery, characterized by natural regeneration of Rhizophora racemosa but limited by persistent sediment contamination and incomplete species restoration. The study underscores the need for continued monitoring, effective pollution control, and active restoration strategies to enhance long-term recovery of mangrove ecosystems in the Niger Delta.