An Assessment of the Niger - Delta Crisis and Nigeria’s External Relations - From 1992-2008
Angela Ajodo-Adebanjoko; Ojua, Takim Asu

Abstract
This paper is designed to assess the effects of Niger Delta Crisis on Nigeria’s external relations from 1992 to 2008. The Niger Delta is the region that produces oil which is seen presently as the life wire of the Nigerian economy. The region has been embroiled in crisis for some time. The need to ensure lasting peace in the region prompted this research because peace in the region will impact positively on Nigeria’s external relations. In carrying out this research, primary and secondary sources of data collection were used. At the end of the research findings showed that the Niger Delta crisis is the result of many factors among which are the desire of the people of the region to control their resources, the activities of multinational oil companies in the region which cause environmental hazards, corrupt activities of Niger Delta elites who embezzle funds meant for development; and obnoxious laws by the Nigerian government. Efforts of successive Nigerian governments to put an end to the crisis have not been a complete success. Meanwhile, the crisis continue to have an adverse effects on Nigeria’s external relations and as a result, recommendations are made on the need for dialogue, involvement of host communities in decision making, rapid socio-economic development and revenue transparency among others so as to put an end to the crisis. Measures should also be geared up to properly integrate indigenous youths in the mainstream of production to attain sustainability, growth and development.

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