President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for what he described as “responsible leadership”, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to restore lasting peace and development in Ogoniland.
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, conveyed the president’s message on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt.
Ribadu led a high-powered presidential delegation aimed at advancing dialogue and confidence-building around peace initiatives and the possible resumption of oil exploration activities in Ogoni communities.
Speaking during the visit, the NSA said President Tinubu was pleased with Governor Fubara’s approach to governance and his handling of sensitive discussions surrounding Ogoniland. According to Ribadu, Rivers State currently stands out as one of the most peaceful states in the country, a situation he attributed to deliberate leadership and cooperation between the state and federal authorities.
“President Tinubu asked me to thank you. He is very happy with you and the way you have handled these matters,” Ribadu told the governor. He added that a “new chapter is unfolding in Ogoni”, signalling the beginning of significant political, economic and social changes in the historically restive region. Ribadu also expressed appreciation to the Ogoni people for their patience and continued commitment to peace over the years.
The delegation included the Minister of Works, David Umahi; the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; and senior officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Their presence underscored the Federal Government’s multi-sectoral approach to addressing long-standing environmental degradation, infrastructure deficits and economic exclusion in Ogoniland.
Several key initiatives were announced during the visit. Among them is the completion of the Eleme axis of the East–West Road, valued at over ₦200 billion, which will feature five flyovers and is scheduled for completion by April 2026. The Federal Government also plans to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road, construct two flyovers along the route, and reroute the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through Ogoniland to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
On environmental restoration, the delegation highlighted ongoing progress with the Ogoni clean-up project, including initiatives recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). These cover mangrove restoration, healthcare interventions, livelihood support, and women empowerment programmes aimed at rebuilding communities affected by decades of oil pollution.
In addition, NNPCL announced plans to employ 30 Ogoni indigenes, with appointments expected to take effect ahead of operations resuming in January 2026. The move is seen as part of efforts to foster inclusion and local participation in the region’s economic revival.
Governor Fubara welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, dialogue and sustainable development, describing the federal initiatives as critical steps towards healing and long-term prosperity in Ogoniland.
