Niger Delta demand 100% control, ownership of resources

The Niger Delta region in Nigeria, known for its vast oil reserves, is once again at the forefront of calls for greater autonomy and control over its resources. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Annkio Briggs, spokesperson of the Ijaw Republican Assembly and a member of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, articulated the region's demands for 100% ownership and control of its resources. This shift in focus from past demands for 15% to 25% to 50% derivation marks a significant escalation in the Niger Delta's quest for greater autonomy. Briggs emphasized that the region is now seeking complete ownership of its resources while still agreeing to pay taxes to the federal government. The issue of resource ownership and control has been a longstanding source of tension in Nigeria, with the Niger Delta region bearing the brunt of environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges despite its oil wealth. The calls for greater autonomy and control over resources reflect the region's desire to address historical injustices and assert its rights to self-determination. Briggs highlighted the need for a restructuring of Nigeria that would empower the Niger Delta region to govern its resources effectively. She emphasized that the current situation, where the federal government retains significant control over oil revenues, undermines the development and prosperity of the region. By advocating for 100% ownership and control of resources, the Niger Delta is asserting its sovereignty and pushing for a more equitable distribution of wealth. The demands put forth by Briggs and other voices from the Niger Delta signal a growing determination to challenge the status quo and secure a more favorable deal for the region. As the conversation around resource ownership and control continues to gain momentum, it remains to be seen how the federal government will respond to these calls for greater autonomy and self-determination. The Niger Delta's quest for 100% control and ownership of its resources represents a pivotal moment in the region's history and may have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's future.