The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has reaffirmed its commitment to transform Ogoniland from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress, as the Federal Government advances plans for oil exploration in the area.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, disclosed this in a statement, stressing that the company had already initiated infrastructure and empowerment projects, including road construction and community development programmes, to rebuild trust and demonstrate accountability.
“NNPC Ltd is determined to transform Ogoniland from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress,” Ojulari said. He emphasized that the re-entry process would be anchored on justice, equity, sustainability, and collaboration with the Ogoni people.
Ojulari also commended the role of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who convened the committee that facilitated dialogue among stakeholders, as well as Professor Don Baridam and members of the Presidential Committee for producing a report he described as fair and inclusive.
Similarly, NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, described the re-entry into Ogoniland as a landmark development that symbolizes justice, reconciliation, and sustainable national progress. He said the milestone reflects the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes responsible investment and the welfare of host communities.
Speaking during the presentation of the Ogoni Consultations Report at the State House, President Tinubu acknowledged the struggles of the Ogoni people, assuring them that the government was committed to healing past wounds.
“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,” the President said.
Ojulari described the Ogoni re-entry as more than just an energy project, calling it “a bold step toward healing and national prosperity.”
