Nigerian government could secure elusive Delta peace

Subject

Niger Delta peace initiatives

Significance

The Nigerian presidency on May 6 announced an increase of almost 30 billion naira (95 million dollars) in amnesty payments to militants in the Niger Delta region as part of the government's ‘New Vision for Niger Delta’. Last year, attacks on oil infrastructure saw production fall to an average 1.6 million barrels per day according to OPEC. In recent months, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo visited stakeholders in several Niger Delta states as the government seeks a lasting solution to the regional conflict.

Impacts

• A fall in oil prices could undermine the government’s ability to meet its financial obligations in the Delta.
• Buhari's absence may embolden the opposition People’s Democratic Party in the Niger Delta, where they control all states.
• Proposed large external borrowing by the government could result in renewed fiscal indiscipline and corruption.