Challenges of Natural Resource Wealth in Nigeria: A Case Study of Niger Delta Region

Abstract

This research looks at the challenges of natural resources wealth in Nigeria: a case study of Niger Delta region. The study utilized survey methodology to collect data from the whole population of only five state that are oil producing state in Niger Delta Region in Nigeria (Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa Delta, Edo and Rivers State). The total population of the five state was estimated at 18,151,093 as of 2006 census. With the implementation of Taro Yamane formulae, the population size decreased to 400 people. Three local government areas were selected from each of the five state making it a total of 15 LGA’s. Out of the 400 questionnaires sent out, a total of 331 respondents from the 15 LGA’s returned. With a mean criterion of 3.0, the statistical tools of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) were used to analyze the study's research topics. Reviewing the socio-political, economic and environmental challenges of natural resources wealth in Nigeria are:negative influence on civic space, political conflict, weakening of political institution, political instability, corruption, kidnapping, militancy, economic growth impediment, mono-economy, Dutch disease, deforestation and ecosystem degradation, biodiversity loss, reduction in soil and water quality, destruction of farmland, rural urban-drift, oil thief, illegal refinery etc. The study concluded that Nigeria's political leaders must urgently address the resource curse and immediately begin to address the long-term damage this curse has caused and brought about from a new Nigeria with a strong desire for true development based on good governance.