National Security and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Challenges from the Niger Delta

Abstract

The symbiotic relationship between national security and sustainable development cannot be undermined. The Niger Delta Region occupies a strategic position in the political economy of the Nigerian nation in view of its oil-bearing status and dividends accruing from the explorations of multinational corporations to the detriment of host communities. The exploitation of crude oil and gas poses debilitating environmental consequences compounded by the wanton neglect of past administrations vis-à-vis sustainable development. An x-ray of palliative measures in the past leaves much to be desired. Statistical data on the toll of insecurity in our study area has reached an alarming proportion. The concept of violence and militancy both as an instrument of disempowerment on the one hand and as a tool of emancipation on the other, will be examined. The way out of this quagmire is the main focus of this paper.