Survey of Mangrove Degradation and Shoreline Changes in Cross River Estuary

Mangrove forests in the Cross River Estuary, South South Nigeria, represent one of the most ecologically significant coastal ecosystems in West Africa, providing nursery habitats, carbon sequestration, and coastal protection services. However, these ecosystems face mounting pressure from illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, oil spills, and sea level rise. This study conducts a spatial survey of mangrove cover change and shoreline dynamics in the Cross River Estuary over the period 2018 to 2024, using Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 satellite imagery analysed through geographic information system techniques. Ground-truthing exercises are undertaken at three selected sites: Calabar Municipal waterfront, Akamkpa estuarine zone, and the Bakassi Peninsula buffer zone. Shoreline change rates are computed using the Digital Shoreline Analysis System, while mangrove loss is quantified using supervised classification algorithms. Field surveys record species composition, canopy height, and evidence of anthropogenic disturbance. Findings are expected to reveal net mangrove loss of over 20 percent in the study period, with the most severe degradation occurring proximal to artisanal timber extraction sites. The research highlights the inadequacy of existing conservation policies and recommends community-based mangrove restoration initiatives supported by state environmental agencies. Results contribute to national coastal ecosystem mapping efforts and align with Nigeria's commitments under the Ramsar Convention. Keywords: mangrove degradation, Cross River Estuary, shoreline change, remote sensing, coastal conservation