Call for Federal Support to Sustain Oil Production Growth
Leaders from the Niger Delta Ethnic Youth Leaders Forum (NDENLF) have urged the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to extend their full support to Tantita Group, enabling a sustained increase in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day (BPD).
NDENLF Summit Highlights Urgent Needs
Jonathan Lokpobiri, Chairman of the NDENLF, made this appeal during a summit held in Port Harcourt on Friday. He emphasized that it is crucial for the nation’s leaders to take prompt action on the collective demands outlined during the event. “The issues we raised reflect the ongoing developmental gap in the Niger Delta. Businesses in the region are committed to health, safety, and regional protection,” he stated.
Addressing Sabotage and Enhancing Local Support
Lokpobiri also highlighted the alarming rise in sabotage within the Niger Delta. He called upon Congressional leadership, the National Security Adviser, and the NNPCL to bolster support for local entities already operating successfully in the region. Such actions, he argued, would help foster a healing environment for the Niger Delta communities.
Demands for Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Development
The NDENLF’s communiqué put forth several key demands, including enhanced cooperation and communication among stakeholders to promote youth empowerment and community involvement in the oil and gas sector. The Forum stressed the importance of comprehensive engagement strategies to ensure that local youths are informed and actively participate in development programs aimed at benefiting the Niger Delta.
Recognition of Presidential Commitment
The Forum expressed appreciation for President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and development in the Niger Delta, a region that has long faced environmental degradation, poverty, and neglect despite its significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy.
Infrastructure Challenges Demand Strategic Investments
Nevertheless, the NDENLF cautioned that substantial infrastructure deficits and developmental challenges necessitate more strategic and sustained investment from the federal government and relevant agencies. NDENLF Secretary Eniwaku Ologun noted that more than 2,000 youths attended the summit, reflecting a keen interest in discussions centered around energy security and peace in the region.
Public-Private Partnerships for Security and Development
Ologun mentioned that one of the summit’s highlights was recognizing the peaceful climate currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta, particularly concerning oil and gas infrastructure. He commended the government’s decision to engage private security firms for the protection of these assets, citing Tantita Security Services as a notable example. He acknowledged that despite some dissent regarding Tantita’s concentrated success, the overwhelming sentiment among local youth is one of support for these companies.
Commitment to Youth and Regional Stability
Blessed Ugere, National Youth Chairman of the Urhobo Progressive Union, reaffirmed the union’s partnership with Tantita, stressing their shared commitment to fostering peace, employment, and opportunities for young people in the Niger Delta. The collaboration aims to harness local potential and contribute to the overall stability and development of the region.
