President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured Ogoni leaders on Tuesday in Abuja that his administration would prioritize peace, justice, and sustainable development in Ogoniland.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu, during a meeting at the State House, emphasized the need for unity and reconciliation. He urged the Ogoni people to transcend historical grievances and collaborate for the advancement of their community.
“We cannot rewrite history, but we can correct past anomalies. We cannot heal wounds if we remain angry,” the President said.
President Tinubu directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to oversee negotiations, emphasizing inclusive consultation and mutual understanding. He praised the Ogoni delegation for supporting the Federal Government-led dialogue, stressing the importance of collaboration, trust, and inclusiveness to resolve longstanding issues.
“We must work together with mutual trust. Go back home, consult more, and include others. Let us make this effort worthwhile by bringing peace, development, and a clean environment to Ogoniland,” he added.
The President tasked ministers, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), and the Rivers State Government to cooperate with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in achieving these goals.
Governor Fubara of Rivers State expressed gratitude to the President for his support and for welcoming an inclusive representation of the Ogoni people. He emphasized the importance of resuming oil operations in Ogoniland and pledged the delegation’s commitment to supporting the President’s directives.
“This meeting solidifies our respect for the President, and we are ready to continue consultations to ensure the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland,” Governor Fubara stated.
National Security Adviser Mallam Ribadu commended the Ogoni people’s trust in President Tinubu and their commitment to dialogue. He highlighted the diverse representation of the 50-member delegation, reflecting the broad spectrum of Ogoni society.
“The presence of this delegation demonstrates the Ogoni people’s readiness to engage constructively for peace, justice, and sustainable development,” Ribadu said.
King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII, Gberemene of Gokana Kingdom, expressed the community leaders’ willingness to participate in finding lasting solutions to the region’s challenges.
