Transparency and Stability in Nigeria
27 February 2006

A February 27 New York Times editorial argues that the Bush administration, because of its good relations with Nigeria and ties to its oil industry, has unique leverage to “broker international agreements” leading to more transparency of oil money in Nigeria.  Such transparency, the editors surmise, will help lead to stability.   The editorial notes that there are more reasons to promote stability in Nigeria than just oil, pointing out that Nigeria helps provide regional stability, fight terrorism, secure the Gulf of Guinea, and even prevent the spread of bird flu.  Much more attention should be given to Sub-Saharan Africa, the editors contend, since its oil production “is on track to double…in the next 10 years.”