NIGERIAN SECURITY AGENCIES AND SECURITY CHALLENGES IN THE NIGER DELTA REGION

Abstract

The Niger Delta is an economically significant and strategic region in Nigeria. It houses most of Nigeria’s oil resources. A good proportion of the country’s revenue is derived from the petroleum resources in this region. Regardless, Niger Delta is one of the regions in Nigeria that is internally and security challenged. This study identified three major security issues in the region: militancy, sea piracy and pipeline vandalism. In attempting to discuss these security issues of the region, this study employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Statistical and non-statistical data used in the study were generated mainly from secondary sources, viz., books, articles, newspapers and organizational reports. Tables, maps and plates were equally used for a deeper understanding of the subject matter. In addition, the study investigated the roles of various security agencies in addressing the Niger Delta insecurity situation and concluded by noting that the Nigerian army, the Police and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) are all actively involved in engineering a country uncomfortable for the operation of militants, vandals and pirates.