Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development in Post-Conflict Communities of the Niger Delta

Several communities in the Niger Delta have been prone to oil related conflicts hence the need for effective Peacebuilding, conflict resolution strategies and sustainable development in such communities. Peace building and conflict resolution are crucial components of sustainable development, particularly in post-authoritarian societies like Nigeria. Conflicts therefore have become the mainstay of the region. Compounding this ecological devastation is the political marginalization and total oppression of the people and especially the derailment of their rights including land rights. As a result of gross neglect by both successive Federal Governments and trans- national conglomerates-shell, Gulf, Mobil, Agip, Texaco, Pan Ocean, Ashland, Philips, Tenneco and ELF operating in the region, the people in the region have continued to live with widespread poverty and deaths, complete lack of Socio-economic infrastructure, high rates of crime and unemployment. The paper was based on the qualitative method while the social system theory as propounded by Parsons (1971) was adopted. It asserts that society is a close social system that produces itself and its environment. The theory maintains that observers recursively self-construct everything that is meaningful in the world, beginning with the difference between themselves and their environment. The study found that Peace building and conflict resolution are crucial for achieving sustainable development in post-conflict regions like the Niger Delta. Effective peace building and conflict resolution efforts involve addressing the root causes of conflicts and promoting dialogue and reconciliation among conflicting parties. These efforts can create a more stable and peaceful society, which can create a more favourable environment for economic development and growth. It is herein recommended that promoting dialogue and reconciliation among conflicting parties will go a long way in facilitating peace building and conflict resolution efforts.