Impact of Oil Pipeline Transportation and Vandalization on Economic Development in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study is on the impact of pipeline transportation and vandalization on economic development in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. Pipeline transportation is the preferred means of transportation of petroleum products in Nigeria. Significantly, this mode of transporting petroleum products has also become a major source of concern in that it appears to negatively affect the economic development of communities in the Niger Delta region. The study therefore, explores the impact of pipeline vandalization on economic development of Ikwerre Local Government Area. The methodology is qualitative. Data for the study is sourced from text books, newspapers, magazines, journals, periodicals, and documented materials. The findings highlight that the damage from pipeline operations has become chronic and cumulative and has compromised livelihoods and health of the impoverished communities leading to further economic under-development. The study recommends adoption of effective sustainable reforms to encourage responsible petroleum transportation activities in ways that will discourage vandalization and positively influence economic development of host communities in the near and long term.