U.S. companies like Triple Diamond Energy Corp. understand the need for less dependence on foreign oil to fuel our country’s hunger for oil. Though there are many places throughout the world that are rich in oil, tapping into these resources often comes with challenges.
The coastal delta of Nigeria is made up of mile after mile of swamps and bogs filled with unappealing sludge. However, beneath this rather unattractive exterior lie some of the richest deposits of petroleum ever discovered. Exploration teams are continually discovering natural riches beneath this country known for its poverty and political unrest.
Local Feuds over Oil in Nigeria
These resources exist in a land occupied by simple fishermen and villagers, as well as ruthless pirates and complete corrupt militia that all want to claim a share of the exploration and exploitation of their country’s untapped oil resources. In addition to local interests in the oil reserves, other countries that desperately need new sources of energy are fighting for the right to explore Nigeria and gain a share of the millions of barrels of oil it contains.
Thirty percent of the newly discovered oil reserves in the world have been found on the west coast of Africa. Countries such as the United States and China that are massive consumers of oil are always interested in new sources of oil. To put things in perspective, the supplies of oil that have been discovered in Nigeria could mean an answer to the United States’ 1.6 million barrels per day oil habit.
Concern Over Foreign Oil Interests
Understandably, the Nigerians are not looking forward to the industrialization of their area by foreign oil interests. To many simple fishermen and local villagers, oil is considered to be an evil poison that will lead to an unwelcome invasion of their homes. In addition to the exploration and colonization of their land, residents realize that oil spills would be extremely detrimental to their land and their livelihoods. In years past, two spills in the Kolo River killed all over the fish that the fishing village depended upon.
In addition to the loss of food and livelihood, fighting over rich oil fields also leads to problems for the inhabitants. Political leaders have used youth militia to take over extraction stations and make outrageous demands such as the release of political prisoners that must be met. If oil-mining companies don’t comply, the militia threatens to destroy the entire operation.
Companies like Triple Diamond Energy Corp. within the United States have kept a close watch on the situation. While many companies would like to explore the natural resources available in Nigeria, they do not want disrupt ecosystems and cultures that have lived in the region for generations.