The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, says return to Ogoniland marks a historic turning point for Nigeria in terms of oil production and also reflects President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking during the presentation of the Ogoni Consultations Report at the State House in Abuja, Tinubu said that the re-entry reflected the government’s recognition of their sacrifices.
According to a statement on Friday by Andy Odeh, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd., the President acknowledged that the Ogoni people have endured long years of pain.
“This milestone reflects the spirit of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which commits to building a stronger country, attracting responsible investment and ensuring community development for national progress.
“We are not, as a government, taking lightly the years of pain endured in Ogoniland. We recognise that, otherwise we would not be here today. We declare with conviction that hope is here and is back with us,” Tinubu said.
Mr Bashir Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd., reiterated the President’s sentiments, describing the development as a re-affirmation of NNPC’s commitment to the Ogoni re-entry plan and a bold step towards justice, healing and national prosperity.
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He emphasised that the re-entry demonstrates that Nigeria can confront its past, honour the sacrifices of its communities and forge a new path with a vision of prosperity and justice for all.
“The re-entry into Ogoniland is not just about oil and gas. It is about justice, healing, and charting a new future for our nation,” Ojulari said.
“Ogoni re-entry can be seen as both a test and an opportunity for the country. It demonstrates that equity can exist in national development, and oil can co-exist with environmental stewardship and inclusive nation-building.
“This milestone is a practical example of how President’s Renewed Hope Agenda translates into reality by strengthening our country, creating conditions for responsible investment, while prioritising the prosperity of host communities,” he said.
Ojulari acknowledged the pivotal leadership of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in convening a committee that brought diverse stakeholders together, creating the platform for dialogue and consensus that made this breakthrough possible.
He also praised the work of Prof. Don Baridam and members of the Presidential Committee, who engaged tirelessly and transparently with relevant parties to produce a report that showed fairness and inclusivity.
“The lesson is that this journey cannot be driven solely by production volumes. It must be anchored on justice, equity, sustainability, and most importantly, collaboration with the very people whose land bears this wealth,” he said.
Ojulari was categorical that in resuming operations in Ogoni, NNPC Ltd. will continue to build trust by prioritising community engagements with key stakeholders, investing in infrastructure and empowering local enterprise.
He confirmed that NNPC has already began initiatives in road construction, infrastructure upgrades and economic empowerment programmes designed to rebuild trust and demonstrate accountability in an inclusive manner.
“NNPC Ltd. is determined to transform Ogoni land from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress,” he concluded.
Ribadu said sustainable progress was possible and proven through collaboration with all parties concerned.
Ribadu said that the report was the outcome of an intensive, methodical and transparent engagement.
Baridam, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the President for his unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Ogoni people, adding that through diplomacy and relentless insistence on dialogue, host community trust was earned, and hope restored. (NAN)
