Nigerian Niger Delta Community Participation: Catalyst for Sustainable Human Development
OtegaOkinono; Danni Salleh PhD, APPM, ALPBM; BadariahHj. Din PhD

Abstract
Due to degeneration resulting from years of oil exploration in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, the government has embarked on several developmental initiatives to improve the living conditions of the people. However, the area is classified as one of the most underdeveloped among the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria despite its enormous contribution to the national revenue. This study examines community participation as a catalyst to foster sustainable community and human development in the region. An in-depth interview was conducted with the key informants. The qualitative data obtained was analyzed using the Nvivo 10 software. The findings revealed that issues such as community involvement in decision-making, awareness of government intervention programs, adequate consultation and collaboration are the catalyst for community participation. The study, therefore, concludes that there is need for government and development agencies to understand the needs and aspiration of community in policy formulation and implementation of developmental goals.

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