Rich Nation, Poor Region: Socioeconomic Implications of Resource Exploitation in the Niger Delta

Authors: EZE, George Ogazi Mani (PhD); ONYESO, Prince Ikeokwu Nwaokugha (PhD); NWINEEWII, Dum-ale (PhD)

Affiliation: Department of Mass Communication, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

December 13, 2025

SIAR-Global Journal of Humanities, Management & Educational Review

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17921545

Rich Nation, Poor Region: Socioeconomic Implications of Resource Exploitation in the Niger Delta

Research Article Multidisciplinary

Abstract

The Niger Delta, Nigeria's main oil-producing area, perfectly illustrates the irony of a region rich in resources yet struggling with poverty and lack of development. Even though it accounts for more than 80% of the country's foreign exchange earnings from crude oil and gas, the people living there continue to face significant socioeconomic challenges. This study examined the socioeconomic effects of resource exploitation in the Niger Delta, shedding light on issues like environmental damage, loss of livelihoods, and failures in governance. The research focused on the persistent disparity between the wealth generated from resources and the human development indicators in the area. The aims were to explore how oil exploration impacts local communities, evaluate how governance and revenue distribution contribute to persistent underdevelopment, and evaluates the security issues) tied to conflicts arising from resource exploitation. The findings indicated that oil spills, gas flaring, and land degradation have diminished traditional income sources, worsened poverty, and sparked unrest among the youth. Additionally, neglect of infrastructure and unfair distribution of oil revenues have intensified regional inequalities, leading to calls for resource control and, at times, violent resistance. This research is significant as it adds to the conversation about resource governance and sustainable development, providing valuable insights for policymakers to create strategies that promote environmental justice, fair revenue-sharing, and community involvement. By tackling these fundamental issues, Nigeria could potentially break the cycle of the resource curse and turn the Niger Delta into a beacon of inclusive growth and stability.

Keywords

Niger Delta, resource exploitation, environmental degradation, poverty, revenue allocation.

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EZE, George Ogazi Mani (PhD); ONYESO, Prince Ikeokwu Nwaokugha (PhD); NWINEEWII, Dum-ale (PhD) (2025). Rich Nation, Poor Region: Socioeconomic Implications of Resource Exploitation in the Niger Delta. SIAR-Global Journal of Humanities, Management & Educational Review, Vol. 1, No. 2. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17921545

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Rich Nation, Poor Region: Socioeconomic Implications of Resource Exploitation in the Niger Delta

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SIAR-Global Journal of Humanities, Management & Educational Review