An assessment review of the impact of oil exploration activities on
agriculture and natural resources in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
was carried out. The study showed that oil exploration activities
adversely impacted specifically on soil/land resources, aquatic
life/fisheries, water resources, crops, livestock and forests/vegetation.
Oil spills have degraded most agricultural lands, reduced the
availability of fish and fish products, caused the pollution of surface
and ground water resources, destruction of arable and tree crops and
death of farm animals in the region as a result of toxic materials in the
soil and polluted water. Oil exploration activities have also resulted in
the disappearance of some forest vegetation and animal species,
including primates, fish, turtles and birds. The ultimate result of these
impacts is a drastic reduction in farm productivity and animal farm
income. Key policy recommendations include capacity building and
empowerment of women and youths in the region as well as the
establishment of a separate functional department of Agriculture and
water resources within the newly created Ministry of Niger Delta
Development (MNDD). Oil companies in the region should
incorporate large scale agricultural development and natural
resources management programmes in their community interventions.