Conflicts in Nigeria’s Niger Delta: Issues on Response and Management

Abstract

The Niger Delta region of Nigeria has one of the largest mangrove forests in Africa. It is naturally endowed with abundant natural resources. There is a high-reserve of mineral and agricultural riches. The Niger Delta States produce about 75% of Nigeria's petroleum representing about 50% of the Federal. govemment revenue (CBN, 1981). However, inspite of this vastoil reserve, the region remains poor. Thus, the region has witnessed generational conflicts and escalating youth violence in recent years perpetuated by youths and youth vigilante groups. Though the Nigerian governments especiallyat the Federal level have adopted some methods to manage the conflicts, the impacts of such strategies are diflicult to evaluate. Thus, there is a need for an alternative approach. This approach which is a product of several interactive sessions organized for stakeholders in the Niger Delta region recommends a participatory community strategy that aims to foster growth through effective consultation at the grassroot.