Niger Delta Drives Nigeria’s Economy but Remains Neglected – Senator Jarigbe

Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has described the South-South region as the “circulatory system of Nigeria’s economy,” yet burdened by what he called clogged “arteries” of underdevelopment, environmental degradation, economic marginalization, and recurring social unrest.

This concern was echoed by several stakeholders on Wednesday during the second edition of Road to South-South: The National Convergence of the Renewed Hope Agenda, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North Senatorial District, said the region’s pivotal role in sustaining Nigeria’s economy makes its neglect “untenable and dangerous.” He lamented that despite decades of fueling national progress with vital oil and gas resources, the South-South continues to grapple with pollution, economic exclusion, and instability.

“The South-South region is the very circulatory system of the Nigerian economy. For decades, it has powered our nation’s progress, providing the lifeblood—our oil and gas resources—that has fueled our federation,” he said.

“Yet, paradoxically, the arteries of the region itself have been clogged with the plaque of underdevelopment, environmental degradation, economic marginalization, and social unrest. This paradox of contributing massively to national wealth while remaining impoverished at home is the heart of the national question we must resolve.”

He further described the situation as “wealth creation accompanied by wealth depletion; national prosperity alongside local poverty; and immense contribution with inadequate compensation.”

Jarigbe praised the Office of the President, particularly the Senior Special Assistant on Communications, for shifting “from rhetoric to roadmap, from grievance to strategy, and from isolation to collaboration.”

He called for a Niger Delta Environmental Restoration and Sustainability Act to move beyond superficial clean-up efforts and ensure full remediation of polluted lands and waterways. He also emphasized the need for accountability mechanisms and coordinated environmental monitoring.

In her welcome remarks, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Hon. Gift Johnbull, unveiled Road to South-South 2.0, describing it as a renewed drive to accelerate development and expand the reach of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Johnbull said the initiative builds on gains from the first edition, stressing that “progress must never stall.” She noted that the platform connects government with grassroots communities, ensuring that local voices shape national direction.

She highlighted successes from the inaugural edition, including Project Earn from the Soil, which equipped thousands of farmers with labour-saving machinery, earning recognition from international partners and state governments.

The second phase will prioritize agribusiness, renewable energy, education, and technology transfer, transforming global training and investment into tangible local benefits.

Johnbull urged broad collaboration, noting that the South-South is not only Nigeria’s oil hub but also its “innovation hub, cultural heart, and a vital pillar for national unity and growth.”

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