“Some of the beneficiaries were trained as pilots, marine engineers, oil and gas engineers medical doctors, lawyers among others. They have become valuable generation of skilled youths that are contributing positively to national development.”
Browsing: Niger Delta militancy
The association said it is unhappy with the Federal government for not addressing its grievances as regards unfair labour practices by the management of some indigenous oil and gas companies.
“In 10 years’ time, I’d be very surprised if any country that hasn’t diversified enough is counting really seriously on oil.”
But ex-militants and local chieftains say that since those “town hall” discussions, little has been done – the government has not followed up on issues raised, is stalling on key demands and has not even appointed a full-time negotiating team.
In a statement, President of Ijaw Youth Council, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, commended Nigeria’s Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, for heeding to the demand of the IYC and other stakeholders in releasing the ex-agitators.
The downward trend in the cases of pipeline sabotage, according to the report, was due to sustained engagements with stakeholders by the Federal Government and Corporation.
The Speaker said, “Illegal oil refineries in Nigeria thrive on illegal oil bunkering, stolen crude oil, and vandalism of oil pipelines and other installations. Without a doubt, these illegal oil operations are reprehensible and should not be condoned for a number of reasons.
He said, “It is important we continue to sustain the institutional engagement and negotiations which are key to the development of the region. Our target is zero militancy by the middle of 2017, and an incident reduction in the region by 90 per cent by 2018. We must resolve current militancy problems and bring back oil production to 2.2 million barrels per day.”
He said, “Provision has also been made in these estimates for activities that will foster a safe and conducive atmosphere for the pursuit of economic and social activities. In this regard, the allocation for the Presidential Amnesty Programme has been increased to N65 billion in the 2017 Budget.”
“Nobody else anywhere in the world will destroy the facilities meant to help them, there is no benefit whatsoever from the destruction.”
