Investigating the Utility of Soft Systems Methodology for Addressing the Wicked Problem of Oil Spills in the Niger Delta

Abstract

Abstract This paper sets out to investigate the usefulness and applicability of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as a creative thinking approach for finding a solution to the ‘wicked problem’ of oil spills in Nigeria's Niger Delta region. In this paper, the problem of oil spills in the Niger Delta is categorized as a ‘wicked problem’. This is especially because the problem is complex, has several competing stakeholders, is associated with far-reaching consequences, and has defied every known attempt at finding a solution. Therefore, in investigating the utility of SSM for addressing the problem, this paper adopts the qualitative approach which involves a total of nine participants who were recruited using the convenience sampling technique. The selected participants included representatives of oil host communities, senior management employees of multi-national oil corporations, and public affairs analysts. The findings of the study revealed that SSM is a useful tool for finding a solution to the oil spills problem in the Niger Delta. This is as the application of SSM helped in structuring the problem to enhance understanding of its nature and scope. This is as SSM provided a suitable framework for collecting and collating valuable data from relevant stakeholders. Thus, this study recommends SSM as a suitable creative thinking approach for finding a solution to the perennial problem of oil spills in the Niger Delta. The study highlights the need for a collaborative relationship between the change agent and competing stakeholders.