Topic Talks

Nigeria is integral in its exportation of crude oil for the United States and the EU. Despite this, the activities of large oil corporations such as Mobil, Chevron, Shell, Elf, Agip etc have raised many concerns and criticisms. Shell, in particular has a large base in Nigeria and some say is the root of all the problems in Niger Delta. Due to the many forms of oil-generated environmental pollution evident throughout the region, farming and fishing have become impossible or extremely difficult in oil-affected areas, and even drinking water has become scarce. Malnourishment and disease appear common. There have also been additional adverse effects on the local economy and society, including loss of property, and price inflation. A large part of the Igbo tribe, which I am a part of, is largely concentrated in the Niger Delta. Though my research paper, I want to explore the concerns and the various people who are involved in this tangle. I want to explore the multinational corporations such as Shell and Exxon, the government-which is known to be corrupt, the U.S. and other western parties and most importantly, the people of Niger Delta who are the victims. I want to understand who gains and looses and what should be done to tame the conflict that is threatening to consume Nigeria.