Assessment of multi-stakeholders' collaborative efforts during and after oil pipelines disaster in Nigeria.

Johnson, Francis I.

Abstract

Nigeria has experienced significant losses in terms of economy, ecology and human lives due to pipeline disasters. These incidents can have devastating consequences for the environment, individuals and communities. Previous research has emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in addressing these issues. The purpose of this study is to assess the level of pipeline disaster awareness among stakeholders, identify the causes of oil pipeline disasters, and evaluate the human and ecological impacts of such incidents. Additionally, the study aims to identify the relevant stakeholders in disaster management and examine the current level of multi-stakeholders' collaboration. Furthermore, it seeks to examine the roles of stakeholders in preventing and managing oil pipeline disasters, and to design a framework for their management and mitigation in Nigeria. The study also aims to explore the benefits of stakeholders' collaboration through the framework as a disaster management technique, as well as the potential challenges associated with collaboration. To achieve these aims, the study utilizes questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The findings reveal a lack of active collaborative measures in terms of interoperability among stakeholders in Nigeria, with only limited interaction observed. Existing collaborations are deemed insufficient. Therefore, multi-stakeholder collaboration becomes imperative when individual agencies like NNPC or oil companies cannot adequately address recurring threats such as oil pipeline disasters. Thus, agencies such as National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), NOSDRA, FMHDSD, Fire Service, Oil Companies, Health and Security agencies, the Media, Academia, and the Community must seek to promote cooperation in order to achieve successful implementation of an oil pipeline disaster policy. To address these issues efficiently and effectively, the study develops a framework for stakeholders' collaboration in the management and mitigation of oil pipeline disasters in Nigeria. This framework is based on logical reasoning and incorporates interviews with key stakeholders and industry experts. To ensure unbiased opinions, questionnaires and document analysis of secondary data are also conducted. The developed framework outlines the roles of relevant stakeholders in mitigating oil pipeline disasters before, during and after their occurrence. Key areas of focus in the wake of an oil pipeline disaster include human rehabilitation, environmental restoration, and the prevention of further disasters. The framework captures the relevant stakeholders and their roles in disaster mitigation and management. Improved information and intelligence sharing, better decision-making, more significant coordinated and timely intervention, and enhanced response are some benefits resulting from stakeholders working together. On the other hand, conflicts in shared responsibilities, a lack of resources, lax enforcement of environmental laws and guidelines, and ineffective communication systems are all obstacles that can hinder collaboration. However, if these difficulties are appropriately addressed, the intended outcomes of the collaboration framework will be carried out promptly and efficiently. Among other recommendations put forward, legislation relevant to the nation's multi-agency response to oil disasters should be strictly implemented and enforced by the relevant agencies. This should be done to ensure everyone is held accountable for their actions.

Citation

JOHNSON, F.I. 2023. Assessment of multi-stakeholders' collaborative efforts during and after oil pipelines disaster in Nigeria. Robert Gordon University, PhD thesis. Hosted on OpenAIR [online]. Available from: https://doi.org/10.48526/rgu-wt-2270849

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Mar 12, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 12, 2024
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.48526/rgu-wt-2270849
• Keywords: Oil and gas industry; Oil spills; Disaster management; Pipelines; Nigeria
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2270849
• Award Date: Aug 31, 2023