(a) Draw a sketch map of Africa. On the map show and name; (i) two oil producing areas; (ii) one town in each of the areas in (a)(i) above. (b) Highlight an...

(a) Sketch map of Africa

Key: ● Oil-producing area and town marked on the sketch map.

(b) Contributions of petroleum to the economic development of the Niger Delta/Nigeria

1. Foreign-exchange earnings: Export of crude petroleum earns Nigeria substantial foreign exchange for importing machinery, medicines and other goods.
2. Government revenue and employment: Royalties, taxes and export proceeds provide revenue for government, while oil companies, refineries and related services create jobs and incomes.
3. Development of industries and infrastructure: Petroleum has encouraged refineries, petrochemical and other ancillary industries, as well as the development of roads, ports, pipelines, power supply, schools and hospitals.

(c) Problems affecting petroleum mining in the Niger Delta

1. Difficult terrain: Mangrove swamps, creeks, waterlogged land and offshore sites make prospecting, drilling, transport and laying pipelines difficult and expensive.
2. Oil spills and environmental pollution: Pipeline leaks and blow-outs pollute rivers, farmland and fishing grounds, destroy aquatic life and cause conflicts with local communities.
3. High cost and insecurity: Exploration and production require huge capital, modern equipment and skilled personnel. Pipeline vandalism, sabotage, theft and insecurity can interrupt production and raise operating costs.