Awareness and Perception of Undergraduate Students in Osun State About Gas Flaring and its Impact in Nigeria

Flaring of gases associated with petroleum exploration and production in Nigeria-s Niger Delta has continued to generate complex consequences in terms of energy, human health, natural environment, socio-economic environment and sustainable development. Gas flaring has been criticized strongly in different countries around the world, yet it is still practiced in Nigeria. Since these practices affect the nation-s economy, everybody irrespective of region is considered to be a stakeholder and therefore should be aware of the consequences and implications of these practices. The study focused on the awareness and perception of undergraduate students in Osun state about gas flaring and its impact on the environment and economy of the nation. Questionnaires were distributed to 500 undergraduates of two Universities in the south-western part of the Country. Data gathered were analyzed and presented using tables and percentages. Result of analysis shows that though about 63 % of respondents are aware of gas flaring and its impact on the environment, about 53 % of them believe that it is not a major issue and that it has been reduced if not totally stopped. The study concludes by recommending that undergraduates should be educated on current updates of environmental issues and its impact on the Nation at large.