AN EVER PRESENT MENACE: OIL SPILLS AND THE ECOLOGICAL DEVASTATION OF THE NIGER-DELTA REGION OF NIGERIA

Abstract

For the past six decades Nigeria has been bedevilled by perennial incidents of oil spills which have resulted in ecological devastation that is long lasting. Those predominantly affected by the numerous oil spills are the people, communities and businesses of the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria where most of Nigeria’s oil reserves sit. This work has undertaken an in-depth analysis of various oil spills in Nigeria over a protracted period of time and examined the role of the regulatory body and mechanisms put in place to oversee the oil industry. A comparative analysis of the mode of operation of oil companies conducting operations in some developed countries was carried out, and this work culminates in recommendations for cleaner and safer operations of the oil companies operating in Nigeria and correspondingly, greater protection for the environment and the people and communities of the Niger-Delta.