SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL WELFARE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGER DELTA

Abstract

The Niger Delta region of Nigeria, despite its substantial contributions to the country’s economy through oil production, remains underdeveloped and plagued by socio-economic and environmental challenges. These issues, including poverty, environmental degradation, and social unrest, have called for strong social work and welfare interventions to promote social justice, community development, and improve the quality of life for residents. This paper examines the evolution of social work in the Niger Delta, assesses the impact of various social welfare initiatives, and evaluates the role of governmental and non-governmental organizations in addressing these persistent issues. The challenges faced by social workers, such as resource limitations, security concerns, and resistance from local elites, are discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for strengthening social work and welfare initiatives, emphasizing the need for collaboration, capacity building, and increased transparency to foster sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.