An Assessment of the Federal Government’s Interventions: The Case of Niger Delta Region of Nigeria Since Independence

Abstract

This paper evaluates the contributions of the Federal Government of Nigeria in the Niger Delta region. It
is an investigation into the numerous allegations that the Federal Government of Nigeria completely
abandoned the region that represent Nigeria’s geese that lays the golden egg. It is further an investigation
into reports of huge investment by the Federal Government directed at the region. It equally further
examines the activities of states, local governments, chiefs, youths and communities of oil-producing
states in the Niger Delta who, over the years, are believed to have failed to, not only utilize the state
structure, as well as resources, providing them to develop their states and region. Using primary and
secondary sources subjected to historical analysis, it is found that the people proliferated and allowed
factional and criminal interests affect the development efforts of the Federal Government. It concludes
that, to some extent, the problem of underdevelopment in the region is not a consequence of the
unavailability of monetary, political or social contribution by the Federal Government to the Niger Delta
rather the region’s very poor state is a product of sabotage by some stakeholders. It is recommended that
all stakeholders in the region must shun all forms of divisive and selfish interest and work together if
development of the region is to be achieved.