Niger Delta Professionals for Development is one of the leading NGOs located in the oil-rich Niger Delta, which generates 90% of Nigeria’s revenue. Most of Niger Delta’s 20 million indigenes live in isolated communities accessible only by boat, and suffer from a lack of basic infrastructure services, few educational opportunities, and oil-related environmental destruction which has had a devastating economic, health and cultural impact on the region.
During NIDPRODEV’s eight years of operation, they have been involved in many high profile and successful projects in the Niger Delta, often acting as a liaison between the national / local government, the international oil companies operating in the region, international NGOs, and the individuals living in the riverine villages and cities. This is an excellent region in which to experience a variety of conflict and development issues first-hand.
There will be an informational meeting on Tuesday, Feb 10, 8:15 pm in SIS 203. Joel Bisina (founder and director of NIDPRODEV) is currently visiting the US, and will discuss the two types of internships being offered:
Spring: Located in DC, assisting with coordination of several US/Nigeria NIDPRODEV initiatives, 10-15 hrs/week, flexible location, requires excellent communication skills and organizational ability - project management experience preferred. Stipend may be available depending on experience.
Summer / Flexible timing: Located in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, working with the NIDPRODEV staff on various development projects. Potential for support and guidance related to academic research in Niger Delta. Interns are expected to cover transportation to/from Warri, housing & 2 meals/day. Stipend may be available depending on experience.
The Niger Delta is a complex and conflict-ridden environment. While Delta State has not seen the recent escalation of crime and violence experienced in other parts of the delta, the situation has the potential to change quickly. The ideal candidates will be graduate students with knowledge about the Niger Delta, experience in the developing world and the maturity to handle personal security and unexpected situations. Undergraduates may be considered for these positions under special circumstances. Note that the two internships could be filled by the same person or by different people, depending on interest and experience. Feel free to contact maryella@pobox.com for more information.
For more information about NIDPRODEV and the projects they are involved in, see www.nidprodev.org. For further background on the Niger Delta, you can view a 15-min movie trailer of a documentary that NIDPRODEV is assisting with at http://www.sweetcrudemovie.com/videoGallery.php.
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