President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering peace, justice, and sustainable development in Ogoniland.
Speaking during a meeting with Ogoni leaders at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, the President urged unity, reconciliation, and collaborative efforts to address the region’s lingering challenges.
“We cannot in any way rewrite history, but we can correct some anomalies of the past going forward. We cannot heal the wounds if we continue to be angry,” President Tinubu said.
The President directed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to lead negotiations and facilitate inclusive consultations among stakeholders.
He also instructed federal ministers, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Rivers State Government to support the NSA’s efforts in achieving these objectives.
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President Tinubu appreciated the delegation for embracing dialogue and underscored the importance of trust and inclusivity in resolving Ogoniland’s issues.
“We must work together with mutual trust. Go back home, do more consultations, and bring others on board. Let us restore peace, development, and a clean environment to Ogoniland,” he urged.
Reflecting on his historical ties with Ogoni leaders during Nigeria’s struggle against military dictatorship, President Tinubu assured the delegation that the sacrifices of Ogoni martyrs would not be forgotten.
Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara commended the President for supporting the Ogoni people and for fostering an inclusive approach to the dialogue process.
He pledged the delegation’s full cooperation in advancing the President’s mandate, emphasising the importance of resuming oil operations in Ogoniland.
“This meeting solidifies our respect and trust in the President. We are committed to following his guidance and ensuring oil production resumes in Ogoniland,” Governor Fubara said.
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Speaking, Ribadu, the National praised the Ogoni people for their trust in President Tinubu and their willingness to pursue dialogue.
He noted that the over 50-member delegation represented the diversity of Ogoni society and reflected their readiness for constructive engagement.
King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII, the Gberemene of Gokana Kingdom, expressed the Ogoni leadership’s commitment to working with the government to achieve lasting solutions for the community.
With a renewed call for reconciliation and collaboration, President Tinubu’s administration seeks to address historical grievances and pave the way for peace and development in Ogoniland.
Stakeholders now face the task of translating dialogue into tangible progress for the region.
