Public agencies in Nigerias oil sector: Wealth distribution, economic development and poverty alleviation in the Niger Delta

Abstract

Why are host communities where oil companies are operating in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria undeveloped despite huge contribution of petroleum resources to the economy? This question has led to debates among scholars on the role and operation of multinational oil companies in Nigeria. To address this question, detailed literature search was conducted including reviewing archival documents, company information and media reports in order to gain a richer understanding why there is so much poverty, absence of social mobility and negation of socioeconomic and infrastructural development in the Niger Delta region. This study also examines how Nigeria's abundant wealth is distributed by some public agencies in oil and gas sector in contemporary Nigeria. The study found that transformative leadership would involve not only the government, but also collaboration and support from crude oil companies, NGOs as well as the local communities. Essentially, the government, politicians, local leaders and crude oil companies must provide a fertile business footprint which can allow less privileged people and communities within and outside the Niger Delta region to develop their capacity and creativity. This study recommends that the concept of community cooperatives which would make a difference to the wider population in the region is a model that must be embraced.

Addressing Heavy Metal Pollution in Nigeria: Evaluating Policies, Assessing Impacts, and Enhancing Remediation Strategies

“…The escalating industrialization and urban development in Nigeria have led to heightened levels of heavy metals in water sources. This reality underscores the urgency for effective policies and regulations, as highlighted by various studies (Adeniyi and Achukwu, 2018;Okere and Osemeke, 2020;Ahiamadu et al, 2021;Osisanya et al, 2022). Furthermore, the looming health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in food crops and aquatic ecosystems emphasize the critical need for stringent measures to safeguard water resources and ensure public health (Onakpa et al, 2018).…”

“…While the primary focus is on oil spills, it can also be relevant to heavy metal pollution incidents resulting from oil exploration and production activities. The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Act was established in 2006 in Nigeria, to address oil spillage and its environmental impact (Okere and Osemeke, 2020). However, the agency has acknowledged its limited capacity and technological resources to effectively carry out its role (Okere and Osemeke, 2020).…”

“…The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Act was established in 2006 in Nigeria, to address oil spillage and its environmental impact (Okere and Osemeke, 2020). However, the agency has acknowledged its limited capacity and technological resources to effectively carry out its role (Okere and Osemeke, 2020). This is significant as it indicates a potential gap in NOSDRA's ability to monitor and respond to incidents involving heavy metal contamination resulting from oil-related activities.…”

“…Environmental rules and regulations have been implemented to prevent oil spills, but the risk of incidents persists (Jha et al, 2008). Therefore, NOSDRA could play a crucial role in monitoring and responding to heavy metal pollution incidents caused by oil exploration and production activities, provided it receives the necessary support and resources to enhance its capacity and technological capabilities (Jha et al, 2008;Okere and Osemeke, 2020).…”