Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the Federal Government of the state’s unwavering support for the successful resumption of oil production in Ogoniland, ending over three decades of shutdown.
The assurance came on Monday 22 December during a courtesy visit to Government House, Port Harcourt, by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who led a high-powered delegation on engagements with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Ogoni stakeholders through the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Consultations.
Governor Fubara lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating remarkable courage, political will, and determination in tackling a national challenge that had lingered unresolved for more than 30 years.
He highlighted early dividends from the renewed engagements, including ongoing road projects, improved access routes, establishment of the University of Environment, employment of Ogoni indigenes in the oil sector, hospital developments, and an industrial park.
Emphasising responsible management, the Governor stressed that sustainable development thrives only in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation. He appealed for patience from the Federal Government and the Presidential Committee, noting that years of neglect demand careful confidence-building and sustained dialogue.
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Governor Fubara urged Ogoni youths and leaders to grant oil operators access to repair ageing facilities and remediate spill sites, insisting environmental protection must align with development efforts. He reaffirmed Rivers State’s commitment to fostering peace, reconciliation, and sustainable growth in Ogoniland.
Earlier, Mallam Ribadu, accompanied by Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal; and NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, conveyed President Tinubu’s gratitude for the cooperation from the state government and Ogoni people.
Describing Rivers as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, Ribadu praised Governor Fubara’s leadership in stabilising Ogoniland, calling it a national turning point.
He expressed optimism that the collaborative efforts would usher in a new era of peace, development, and serve as a model for conflict resolution nationwide.
