Corruption and Underdevelopment in the Niger Delta

Abstract

Over the last three decades, the Niger Delta region of Nigeria has faced a severe crisis resulting from total neglect and lack of infrastructural development, primarily due to the self-centered and corrupt leadership. Despite various efforts by the federal government to alleviate the sufferings of the people through the establishment of agencies and appropriation of funds for capital projects and human capacity development, the impact of these initiatives has not been felt by the residents. This article seeks to explain how such a poor socio-economic situation has persisted in a nation rich in natural resources. It is argued that Nigeria's over-reliance on oil revenue, economic mismanagement, and lack of trade and industrial diversity have left the country vulnerable to world oil price shocks. Additionally, while the government's attempts to address the issues have led to increased violence and instability in the Niger Delta, corruption has also played a significant role. This pervasive corruption is seen as a central cause behind ongoing oilfield sabotage and theft by citizens, the failure of the 2009 amnesty program to stop these actions, and the inability of successive state development agencies to provide widespread socio-economic development. This paper examines the geography of the Niger Delta, the impact of corruption, the agencies established to address the region's problems, the Nigerian state's response to the Niger Delta question, and the under-development of the region. The study concludes with recommendations for addressing these issues. Data was collected, collated, and interpreted using both primary and secondary sources.