Perspectives about Monetizing the Deepwater Gas Reserves in Niger Delta, Nigeri

This study of stakeholders' perspectives on monetizing deepwater gas deposits in Niger Delta, Nigeria is a qualitative action research project. This research resulted in better understandings of the perspectives of three key stakeholders: members of the community, government, and oil industry. The research sample included 30 stakeholders from these groups who completed a survey and participated in focus groups. They had sufficient knowledge about deepwater gas deposits and the lack of government policy concerning deepwater gas monetization. The researcher conducted a qualitative analysis of survey findings and focus group responses. Most participants reported that government policy on sharing oil wealth was not satisfactory; the government received the most financial benefits and communities received the least deepwater oil and gas proceeds. Gas extraction from deepwater may increase power and steel development, fertilizer and petrochemicals plants, and growth and industrialization in the Nigerian economy. OUTCOMES: Study participants had the perception that environmental and health hazards due to gas flaring during onshore oil and gas extraction would be minimal during deepwater gas exploitation due to the absence of an immediate community settlement next to proposed deepwater gas extraction facilities. Participants suggested a policy providing incentives for deepwater gas exploitation to enable more accurate determination of gas reserves in deepwater Nigeria. Additional suggestions included provision of adequate security during deepwater gas extraction, which could curb criminality, vandalism, communal clashes, and corruption in the Niger Delta. Stakeholder theories informed the research findings. Existing multinational organizations' safety standards and sustainable community development efforts reflect corporate social responsibility. A systematic examination of thematic results from the different stakeholder focus groups presented a consensus on specific policy proposals and changes of law concerning deepwater gas deposits in Niger Delta.