Niger Delta beyond oil and gas: experiencing authentic indigenous heritage and nature tourism

For decades, the Niger Delta has been synonymous with oil extraction, characterized by severe environmental degradation, social conflict, and limited livelihood diversification, yet the region holds untapped potential. If sustainably harnessed, its rich natural ecosystems and vibrant indigenous heritage
resources can support resilient and inclusive post-extractive economies. This paper explores the prospects of developing authentic indigenous heritage and
nature-based tourism as a pathway to socio-economic regeneration and ecological restoration. The study is framed within the Triple Helix Model (THM), Sustainable Development Framework (SDF), and Cultural Identity Theory (CIT), offering both theoretical insights and practical policy recommendations for diversification. Drawing on contemporary literature and a qualitative methodology involving reconnaissance, ethnography, and semistructured interviews with stakeholders, it explores the potential for successful community-based tourism (CBT). Early findings reveal significant opportunities for innovations for economic empowerment, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and habitat restoration. It further presents a methodology for mapping heritage assets and assessing socio-economic enablers and barriers. The paper identifies significant gaps in existing research, including the lack of integrated tourism-ecology studies, and weak governance frameworks linking tourism, restoration, and a sustainable transition to a resilient post-extractive future for the Niger Delta region.