Noo Saro-Wiwa, daughter of late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, has announced the release of her new book, The Burning Ground: Oil and Militancy in Nigeria, which explores the roots of conflict and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta.
In a statement shared on April 1, 2026, Noo revealed that the book examines how agitation in the oil-rich region evolved over time, particularly following the execution of her father in 1995 under Nigeria’s military regime—an event she described as a turning point that shifted protests from peaceful advocacy to armed militancy.
Published by Columbia Global Reports, the book draws from extensive fieldwork across the Niger Delta, where the author engaged with key figures linked to the region’s turbulent history.
Among those she interacted with are former militant leaders such as Ateke Tom and Ogunboss, as well as reformed ex-fighters like Confidence Mac-Eteli, who has transitioned into agriculture.
Noo also highlighted the contributions of grassroots advocates, including Emem Okon, noting that women’s roles in peacebuilding and community development in the region are often overlooked.
Reflecting on the writing process, she described it as emotionally intense but enlightening, offering her deeper insight into the complexities of the Niger Delta crisis.
She further stressed the need for a shift away from heavy reliance on oil, advocating for renewable energy alternatives such as solar power as a sustainable path forward.
The book is scheduled for release in April 2026 in the United States and will be launched in the United Kingdom in May, marking a dual international debut.