The Niger Delta region occupies a central position in the political economy of Nigeria. The oil and gas sector in Nigeria has assumed an increasing significance since the late 1950s when oil was discovered in the Niger Delta. The volume and importance of oil has increased over the years. It has been documented that Nigeria has about 35 billion barrels of proven oil reserve and another 5 billion in development. At the moment, the oil sector accounts for about 95 percent of expert revenues, 76 percent of government revenues and about a third of the nation's Gross Domestic Product. Similarly, Nigeria has an estimated 180 billion cubic feet of proven natural gas making it the ninth largest concentration in the world. The Niger Delta has slipped into crisis as a result of oil and gas related issues. There is a high level of uncertainty and instability in the Niger Delta. There is extreme danger to life, businesses and property. Human rights violations have reached unprecedended proportions. There are several reported cases of brutality against the citizens including rape, kidnapping and extra judicial killings. People in the delta are living in very difficult situations that affect every facet of their lives. The people are passing through a lot of stress, physical and psychological trauma. Indeed life in the Niger Delta has become nasty, brutish and short. Although the amnesty programme has made it possible for increased production of oil for the country, life remains precarious in the region…continue reading on http://news3w..com/2015/04/buharis-election-promises-and-niger.html