British Colonial Policies and the Oil Palm Industry in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria, 1900-1960

Abstract

This paper is on British policies and the oil palm industry in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Until 1900, the region was in the forefront in the production of palm oil and palm kernel for export. The export of palm produce from this region was threatened by the emergence in the world market of produce from Malaya, Sumatra and the Belgian Congo. The British colonial administration introduced the plantation scheme and pioneer oil mills to improve the quality of oil in order to remain relevant in the world market. These policies and their impacts are discussed focusing on the Niger Delta, peopled predominantly by the Isoko and Urhobo. The conclusion drawn is that the various British policies toward the oil palm industry had no revolutionary impact on the people.