The internal conflict is not only a burden because of the loss of profit, but the loss of security has been a principal effect. The inability of the government to maintain order, provide security and control its citizens questions the power of Nigeria. With militants attacking and destroying oil facilities, in addition to the desperate situation of the Niger Delta, the region is far from stable or secure. Not only is there rampant poverty and unemployment but the government lacks the ability to control its citizens. With regards to international relations, Nigeria is severely at a disadvantage due to the instability of a region and also because its oil, a great source of the national profit, is very insecure and has the possibility of not contributing to but detracting from the state’s power or strength.

The highest priority of the state is to have the ability to commands its resources and has the power to defend itself. With this internal strife, this priority becomes increasingly difficult to reach. The power of the state is compromised because its material capabilities, the military, its funds, and its focus are being strained by these events. Nigeria must gain the power to control and secure its people and resources and it seems willing to use means including coercion by force. This oil war has been a direct attack on Nigeria’s power and has left the government at a weakened position being unable to control or provide security within its own borders. Nigeria must reestablish its power in order to protect itself and survive. And in these circumstances of danger and rampant violence, Nigeria must build and use its capabilities to suppress these attacks and regain control.