Ogoniland Chiefs Seek Oil Production Restart, President Tinubu Vows Support
Ogoni Leaders Advocate for Renewed Oil Production:
- The Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers of Ogoni in Rivers State petitioned President Bola Tinubu to resume oil and gas production in Ogoniland.
- Oil exploration ceased in the early 1990s due to local unrest.
Economic Opportunity and National Benefits Highlighted:
- King Samuel Nnee, Paramount Ruler of Kpite Tai, representing the council, expressed Ogoni people’s readiness to restart production.
- Resumed production on OML 11 (currently solely owned by NNPCL) has the potential to significantly boost national output (100,000 bpd oil, 120 million cubic feet of gas per day) and contribute $5 billion annually to Nigeria’s GDP.
President Tinubu’s Response:
- President Tinubu pledged his administration’s commitment to unlocking Ogoniland’s economic and human potential while prioritizing environmental and economic security for Nigerian communities.
- He emphasized collaboration with the Ogoni leaders and the Rivers State government.
Focus on Healing and Progress:
- President Tinubu acknowledged the need to address past issues and expressed his commitment to environmental cleanup efforts inherited from previous administrations.
- He highlighted the importance of Ogoni businesses in national recovery and job creation.
Safety and Environmental Concerns Addressed:
- The president recognized the need to address safety precautions and environmental challenges associated with oil production.
Democratic Values and People-Centric Governance Underlined:
- President Tinubu reiterated his dedication to democratic values and prioritizing the well-being of Nigerians in his governance approach.
- He committed to working with the Ogoni people and the Rivers State government to secure a brighter future for the region.
Overall, this news indicates a potential turning point for Ogoniland, with renewed oil production offering economic benefits alongside a focus on environmental responsibility and community well-being.
