....can the North can survive without NigerDelta oil

One hand, I would say: It is hard a thing to change a habit that has become a psychological or a mental or  a spiritual habit. with this reason the one negative answer is "No" to any saying that the North can survive without NigerDelta oil..It is like a left-handed child who has grown with left-handed manner until 40years old.
On the other hand, I would proffer a positive answer with saying that if we measure and put in an efficient and effective utilisation of the humans, all physical input and natural resources that abound in the North, I would say, "Yes" to the saying that the North can survive without NigerDelta oil