The Niger Delta is one of the world's largest river deltas, where the Niger River empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Covering about 70,000 square kilometers across nine states, it's Africa's most extensive coastal wetland ecosystem. The region features mangrove swamps, tropical rainforests, and diverse wildlife including rare primates and birds. The Niger Delta is Nigeria's oil production center, providing most of the nation's petroleum. However, oil exploration has caused environmental challenges. The delta is home to over 30 million people from diverse ethnic groups including Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, and Ogoni. Its waterways, creeks, and rivers create unique communities adapted to aquatic life. The Niger Delta's ecological and economic importance makes it central to Nigeria's future.


DELTA OF CONTRASTS:
The Niger Delta spans nine states, covering 70,000 square kilometres of mangroves, creeks, and rainforests. It produces most of Nigeria’s oil and gas, generating national revenue yet facing environmental degradation.

BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT:
The delta hosts manatees, pygmy hippos, red colobus monkeys, and over 1,000 plant species. Its mangrove forests—the largest in Africa—protect shorelines, store carbon, and support fishing communities.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE:
Home to more than 30 ethnic groups (Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ogoni, Ibibio, Andoni), the region features masquerade festivals, canoe regattas, and intricate craft traditions. Oral histories recount resistance to slave traders and colonial incursions.

RESILIENCE AND RENEWAL:
Activists and NGOs campaign for environmental remediation, equitable revenue sharing, and infrastructure development. Programmes such as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) aim to restore livelihoods.

FAST FACTS:
- States: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, Rivers.
- Major rivers: Nun, Forcados, Escravos, Bonny.
- Economic activities: oil and gas, fishing, farming, palm produce, crafts.
- Key issues: oil spills, gas flaring, coastal erosion, youth unemployment.