IMPACT OF OIL SPILL AND FOOD INSECURITY ON WOMEN AND YOUTH OF IMO KPOFIRE, IMO STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

In the energy transition conversation, the move away from petroleum dependent energy economy, to a renewable energy powered economy is apposite. Petroleum exploration and its attendant negative externality have given rise to this study. The study garnered data from the stakeholders in the Oil Producing Host Communities of Imo State. It utilized well-structured questionnaire in achieving the stated objectives. Findings from the result reveal that, the consequences of both legal and illegal petroleum related activities are pollution on farmlands, crops failures, environmental degradation and destruction of aquatic. The study also identified the major stakeholders in the petroleum related activities to include; the International Oil Majors, the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Community Leaders, Traditional Rulers, Security agencies, heads of households, women and the youths The Kpofire activities, flourished due to compromises by all the stakeholders. This portends danger to the achievement of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals 1,2,3,6 and 7, of the United Nations. The study concluded that, the energy transition discourse that is ongoing should be scaled up towards proper engagement of all the stakeholders. Nature based energy resources conversation should be emphasized to help sustainable agriculture and reverse food insecurity ravaging Nigeria. Thus, the following recommendations are apt: advocacy on the dangers inherent in kpofire activities should be scaled up; urgent need for the regeneration of the vast area affected by the Imo Kpofire incident, this will help return the women and youth to agriculture for food security.