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Paper short abstract:

The paper relying on the push pull theory interrogated how oil induced degradation has led to regional migration due to loss of livelihoods. The study explores the drivers of the migration and adaptation strategies adpoted in their new location.

Paper long abstract:

The article interrogated the nexus between environmental degradation and migratory patterns in Nigerias Niger Delta region. The region being the host to many oil facilities and also serving as the major source of revenue for the country is prone to oil induced environmental degradation. Tha paper draws attention to the role of oil activities on the traditional economy of the people and the eventual impact it has on their migration. The paper was anchored on the Push Pull theory of migration and it relied on data from primary sources using key informant interviews and Focus Group Discussions. Findings from the study revealed that since the traditional economy of the people has been destroyed due to oil activities, the locals had to look for other means to survive, while some could stay back due to lack of funds or cultural affinity to the environment others migrated to neighbouring countries like Cameroon. Also, the study found out that people can only migrate due to some pull factors such as social network and access to finance amongst others. Migrants often times also are forced to adopt a new profession since the new environment is difffernt from their own local environment where its mainly fishing and farming.