Resource Conflict, Security and Crisis of Socio-Economic Development in the Gulf of Guinea, 1990 – 2010
This paper examines the place of natural resources as a factor that generates conflict, insecurity and inhibits socio-economic and national development in the Gulf of Guinea. Three resource conflict approaches and resource regimes that generate conflict and insecurity in a community are identified and analyzed. It was indicated that natural resource-rich countries in the Gulf of Guinea have been the landscape of continuous instability in the form of internal turmoil, cross-border conflicts or both. While the conflicts have involved local regimes, opposition forces and rebel groups, they have been complicated by external influences driven by geopolitical and economic interests. To that extent, the grip and control of these resources is a strategic priority for both governments and armed groups who use these illicit revenues to finance their military operations thereby exacerbating the conflicts. The paper conclude by way of policy recommendation that, to overcome resource conflicts and insecurity and engender development, the sub-region must institute genuine public participation whereby the environment rather being a source of conflict and underdevelopment; would serve as a catalyst for peace and development. Without which resource governance and better management of the environment, human security and development will remain elusive in the Gulf of Guinea.
