Cutting the head as cure for headache

Exploring the economic impact of Niger Delta militancy on host communities

Abstract

Background: Militancy has continued to define discourse about Niger Delta region. Government efforts aimed at combating the problem has so far been unable to address the issue. Despite this, empirical evidence on the impact of militant activities on the economy of communities in Niger Delta is limited. 

Objective: To examine the impact of militancy in the Niger Delta on the economy of communities in the area. The study also examined the obligation of the government to people of the Niger Delta region from the perspective of affected communities.

Methodology: Descriptive survey research was used to conduct the study while the sample size was made up of 384 respondents from Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. The Questionnaire served as the instrument for data collection while simple percentages, as well as multiple regression were used to analyze the data for the study.

Results: Militancy in the Niger Delta negatively impact on economic activities in areas like: threat to engagement in economic activities; de-motivation to engagement in economic activities; job loss; decline in income; poor wages; and chasing away investors. The government of Nigeria has an obligation to provide help to them in five generic areas like: human security, environment security, economic security, human empowerment, as well as combating corruption in government interventions.
Unique contribution: This study has developed new measures for evaluating the impact of militant activities on the economic life of host communities from the perspectives of those affected. Additionally, the study has developed five generic areas where government attention is needed to ameliorate the sufferings of communities affected by militant activities.

Conclusion: Militancy in the Niger Delta has a significant negative impact on the economy of communities in the area.

Key recommendation: Further studies should be conducted to examine the solutions to the problem in Niger Delta by considering its impact on economic activities.

Keywords:  economy; impact; Niger Delta; militancy; oil; obligation