The escalation of illegal sand mining in Nigeria has resulted in pronounced river degradation, prompting heightened apprehension regarding river rights and sustainability. Despite this, there has been limited research into recognizing rivers as legitimate entities with legal rights in the Nigerian context. To address this gap, this chapter investigated the effects of sand mining activities in the Ethiope River, Delta State, Nigeria from 1991 to 2020. We utilized qualitative methods, GIS/remote sensing techniques, and enlisted 20 participants aged 18–50 and above to collect primary data, including images and narratives. Additionally, we adopted oral histories from five key informants and secondary data to provide comprehensive insights. Findings revealed that illegal sand mining has led to water pollution (35%), erosion (30%), loss of riverbank vegetation (20%), and a decline in fish population (15%), significantly impacting various communal activities such as access to clean water, domestic, and recreational pursuits. Favorably, sand mining has created income and employment opportunities for 40% of youths, earning 6.28 USD daily, with 50% dedicating 1–12 h daily. Regrettably, an alarming 7.31% of the Ethiope River has been depleted for 29 years due to unregulated mining. To address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of Ethiope River, it is imperative to prioritize policies regulating sand mining practices. This includes optimal innovation, awareness, and action thereby, promoting the adoption of alternative materials, and expediting legal recognition of the Ethiope River as a living entity, setting a precedent for other water bodies in Africa.
