Niger Delta’s Wealth, People’s Poverty: A Tale of Neglect

The recent revelation that oil-producing states in Nigeria shared a whopping N341.59 billion in the first six months of 2024 has raised eyebrows and sparked intense debate.

While the 13% derivation fund is meant to cushion the effects of oil exploration and compensate oil-producing communities, the stark reality is that the region remains grossly underdeveloped, plagued by unemployment, lack of empowerment, and environmental degradation.

The Niger Delta region, which is the bedrock of Nigeria’s economy, is ironically the most neglected and marginalized. The oil-producing communities continue to suffer from abject- poverty, lack of infrastructures, and inadequate social amenities.

The roads are deplorable, healthcare facilities are scarce, and education is in shambles. The region is also grappling with environmental pollution, which has devastated the ecosystem and livelihoods of the people.

Despite the billions of naira allocated to the oil-producing states, the region remains underdeveloped.

The last administration’s promises to develop the region have fallen flat, and the current administration must take responsibility for ensuring that these funds are used effectively.
The people of the Niger Delta region deserve better. They deserve to see tangible results from the derivation funds.

We demand accountability and transparency from the state governments. The funds must be used to develop the region, create jobs, and empower the people. The Niger Delta region is not just a source of revenue for Nigeria; it is a region with people who deserve to live with dignity and pride.

We will continue to shine a light on the underdevelopment, unemployment, lack of empowerment, and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region. We will hold the government accountable for the use of the derivation funds. The people of the Niger Delta region deserve nothing less.