Recommendations

• Ensure international observation of elections in the Niger Delta
  
  The importance of the international community making a significant effort to observe and report on the elections in the Niger Delta cannot be understated. Visible international monitors will remind communities and a vulnerable civil society in the Niger Delta that they have not been forgotten. It will also be a warning to political elites that they cannot exploit instability, further undermine democracy, and endanger local security and international energy security.



• Support more substantial political initiatives for peace in the Niger Delta during the second half of 2007
  
  Under most circumstances the new government in Nigeria will probably be given some 'breathing space' - even by militants - to assess whether positive change can be expected. Significant changes in policy, broader and deeper consultation in the region, and visible signs of delivery of economic development within the first six months of a new administration will be vital to prevent intensification of the conflict.



• Combine international and corporate pressure for improved Local Government elections (which must also be held in 2007)
  
  These elections are under the control of State governments. Standards of governance at this level have been negligible, at best. New State Governors should be encouraged to demonstrate their credentials, and determination to bring about sustainable change, by supporting visible and measurable improvements in the conduct of local elections. Oversight of this process must include improved financial accountability, with these efforts being made public.



• Create a permanent committee at the State Level to oversee Local Government Affairs
  
  This would provide a platform for the state to ensure transparent delivery of development projects by Local Governments.



• Make substantial new commitments to permanently resolve the conflict in the Niger Delta
  
  A persistent problem between 2004 and 2007 has been limited attention on the Niger Delta by a highly centralised government and politicians of all parties generally. At a local level the lack of realistic or detailed manifesto commitments by all politicians has meant there is little to hold them accountable to. Interest from investors and political goodwill from outside Nigeria should be explicitly linked to demands of detailed plans for sustainable economic development and diversification in the Niger Delta. Dismissive assurances that problems "will pass" should be challenged.



• Provide technical support to increase power generation in Nigeria
  
  PDP aspirant Y'Adua has already announced that he will support an emergency program for power generation, if elected. Although the existing infrastructure - and the levels of government and business corruption impeding its improvement - are equally appalling, power generation is one area where international intervention can help. Oil multinationals and affected governments can draw on their expertise and help to change economic conditions in the country. If successful, this will be crucial in all other attempts at economic diversification away from Nigeria's reliance on oil rents.