Oloibiri: Lessons from the Lifecycle of a Single-Industry Town in Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

This study examines the socio-economic aftermath of the oil industry's closure in the town of Oloibiri to derive key lessons for similar towns. Central to the research is the question: What lessons can be learned from Oloibiri's experience with resource development and economic transformation? The methodology combines primary and secondary data, including historical contextualization and interviews, to explore the town's transition after the oil industry's exit. The findings reveal economic and social impacts, including job loss, environmental degradation, and forced migration. These challenges have led to a decline in population and living standards, and the disruption of traditional occupations and small businesses. The study uncovers an interplay of factors, including government policies, mismanagement, and global market shifts, contributing to Oloibiri's current state of condition and poverty. The town's struggles with lack of adequate infrastructure, pollution, and limited employment opportunities highlight the immediate need for systemic change. By documenting Oloibiri's journey, the research underscores key lessons for managing the socio-economic transitions of single-industry towns, emphasizing the importance of diversification and sustainable development. Further research is encouraged on peripheral resource-based communities in Nigeria to inform strategies for their resilience and growth.