Institutional Structures for Poverty Alleviation in the Niger Delta Region, Nigeria: Who makes Decision and in whose Interest?

Abstract

Nigeria's Niger Delta Region has, over the past three decades, been the 'soul' and 'engine' of the country's economy. The delta is the seat of petroleum exploration and exploitation, accounting for over ninety percent of Nigeria's exports as well as government revenue. However, the pace of development in the delta region has been slow. There is lack of physical infrastructure and human capital, which has led to poverty and recourse of inhabitants to violence and conflicts. As a pacifying strategy, institutional structures have been put in place to address the development problems of the Niger Delta. This paper sees the measures as insufficient and ephemeral. inclusiveness and governance have not been institutionally addressed. The paper argues that genuine commitments to the `Niger Delta Question' should be founded on transparent and accountable governance, as opposd to political patronage. Political and social inclusions should form the basis of decision making and implementation.