The South-South Region of Nigeria: Education, Facts, Culture, and Politics

Introduction

The South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria comprises six states: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. This region is known for its rich oil reserves, diverse ethnic groups, vibrant cultural heritage, and complex political dynamics. It is home to major ethnicities such as the Ijaw, Efik, Ibibio, Urhobo, Isoko, Edo (Bini), and Itsekiri, each with unique traditions and languages.

This article explores the education system, key facts, cultural heritage, and political landscape of the South-South region.

Education in the South-South

Primary and Secondary Education

• The region has a moderate literacy rate, with states like Edo and Akwa Ibom performing better than others.

• Challenges include inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and frequent strikes.

• Notable secondary schools include:

  • Federal Government College, Warri (Delta)

  • Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar (Cross River) – One of Nigeria’s oldest schools.

  • St. Gregory’s College, Lagos (originally founded by Edo missionaries)

Tertiary Education

The South-South hosts several federal, state, and private universities, including:

• University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo – One of Nigeria’s top universities.

• University of Calabar (UNICAL), Cross River – Known for research in marine sciences.

• University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers – A leading institution in petroleum studies.

• Niger Delta University (NDU), Bayelsa – Focuses on environmental and oil-related studies.

Challenges in Education

• Underfunding of state-owned institutions.

• Oil-related environmental pollution affecting school attendance in riverine areas.

• Youth restiveness due to unemployment after graduation.

Key Facts About the South-South

Geography & Economy

• Major Rivers: Niger, Benue, Cross River, and Orashi.

• Oil Production: The region produces over 90% of Nigeria’s oil, making it the economic backbone of the country.

• Natural Resources: Crude oil, natural gas, timber, and fertile agricultural land.

Demographics

• Population: Estimated 30+ million people.

• Major Cities: Port Harcourt, Benin City, Calabar, Uyo, Warri, Yenagoa.

• Languages: English (official), Pidgin English, and indigenous languages like Efik, Ijaw, Urhobo, and Ibibio.

Tourism & Landmarks

• Obudu Cattle Ranch (Cross River) – A scenic mountain resort.

• Yankari Game Reserve (extends into the South-South) – Wildlife sanctuary.

• Nembe Creek & Brass (Bayelsa) – Beautiful coastal landscapes.

• National Museum, Benin City (Edo) – Home of ancient Benin bronzes.

Culture of the South-South

Traditional Festivals

1. Carnival Calabar (Cross River) – One of Africa’s biggest street carnivals.

2. Igue Festival (Edo) – A royal festival celebrated by the Benin Kingdom.

3. Ekpe Festival (Efik/Ibibio) – A masquerade festival with secret society performances.

4. Ogori-Bagudu Festival (Delta) – Celebrated by the Urhobo people.

Traditional Attire

• Men: George wrapper with a long-sleeved shirt or traditional chiefs’ regalia.

• Women: Colorful Ankara or George wrappers with beads and coral accessories.

• Royalty: The Oba of Benin and Obong of Calabar wear elaborate crowns and coral beads.

Music & Dance

• Highlife & Afrobeat – Popularized by legends like Victor Uwaifo (Edo).

• Ekombi Dance (Efik) – A graceful traditional dance.

• Bori & Okpokoro (Ijaw) – Traditional war and ceremonial dances.

Cuisine

• Edikang Ikong Soup (Efik/Ibibio) – A nutritious vegetable soup.

• Banga Soup (Urhobo/Isoko) – Made from palm fruit, served with starch.

• Owo Soup (Edo) – A traditional Benin delicacy.

Politics in the South-South

Political Influence

• The region plays a key role in Nigeria’s politics due to its oil wealth.

• Produced two Nigerian Presidents: Goodluck Jonathan (Bayelsa) and Ernest Shonekan (Delta, interim leader).

Key Political Issues

1. Resource Control & Militancy

   • Groups like the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) have agitated for greater oil revenue control.

   • The Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) emerged in recent years, attacking oil installations.

2. Environmental Degradation

   • Oil spills and gas flaring have destroyed farmlands and fishing waters.

   • The Ogoni Clean-Up Project (initiated under UNEP) has seen slow progress.

3. Ethnic Rivalries

   • Tensions exist between Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo in Delta State.

   • Edo vs. Delta political clashes over boundary disputes.

4. Federal Government Relations

   • The region demands more derivation funds (currently 13% of oil revenue).

   • Host Community Bill debates in the National Assembly affect oil-producing areas.

Current Political Leaders (2024)

• Godwin Obaseki (Edo) – Governor, PDP.

• Douye Diri (Bayelsa) – Governor, PDP.

• Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers) – Governor, PDP (in political battle with Wike’s faction).

• Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) – Governor, PDP.

Conclusion

The South-South region is a vibrant, resource-rich, and politically significant part of Nigeria. While it faces challenges like environmental pollution, educational gaps, and political unrest, its cultural heritage, economic contributions, and tourism potential remain strong.

For Nigeria to achieve balanced development, greater investment in education, environmental restoration, and equitable resource distribution in the South-South is crucial.