Concerns about the impact of extraction of energy sources on the environment are one of the major
challenges facing both developed and developing countries in contemporary times. In the developing
countries in particular energy extraction from the environment without degrading the environment has
become a difficult task and energy is a key ingredient for the development of all sectors of the economy of any
nation. Data for this research were generated through field surveys and observations made through visits to
the region and descriptive analysis were used to analyze the data. The results indicate that the geographical
region of southern Nigeria is well endowed with energy sources which include crude oil, coal/lignite and biomass
energy resources. However, over the years the extraction of these energy sources has brought about
negative impacts on the environment such as deforestation, gas flaring, oil spillage, forest fires, destruction of
the natural landscape and vegetation. These negative impacts have over the years led to host community
discontent, kidnappings, hostage taking and violent militancy action particularly in the Niger Delta region
which has affected oil production and energy supply to the other parts of Nigeria. It is therefore
recommended that conscious efforts should be made to minimize the impacts on the environment and the
people to accelerate the pace of development of the region and the nation at large.