By Abbas Nazil
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland, Rivers State, describing the Federal Government’s renewed engagement with the region as a symbol of hope and a fresh beginning.
The assurance was given by the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Bashir Bayo Ojulari, during a Federal Government delegation visit to environmentally degraded land.
Ojulari said the visit underscored the federal government’s determination to rebuild trust, promote dialogue, and foster sustainable development in the oil-producing community.
He described the engagement as a new chapter for NNPC Ltd., one rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility with the Ogoni people.
Acknowledging the painful history of Ogoniland, the NNPC boss noted that understanding and confronting the past is essential to creating a different and more sustainable future.
He commended the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry led by Professor Don Baridam, as well as the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for providing steady leadership and building confidence among stakeholders.
Ojulari emphasized that NNPC Ltd.’s operations in Ogoniland go beyond oil and gas extraction, stressing that people, livelihoods, and environmental protection are central to the company’s mission.
He stated that responsible energy development must align with environmental sustainability and the wellbeing of host communities.
Reaffirming the company’s responsibility to the people of Ogoni, Ojulari assured them of improved welfare, security, and access to opportunities.
He announced that the process for the full-time employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes by NNPC Ltd. has reached the final stage.
According to him, employment offers have already been issued, and the successful candidates are expected to resume duties in January 2026.
He described the employment initiative as a meaningful step toward shared progress and inclusion for the host communities.
Speaking during the visit, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his commitment to resolving long-standing issues in Ogoniland.
The governor said the President had made concrete commitments aimed at improving the quality of life in the area, many of which are already being fulfilled.
He cited ongoing road construction, plans for a University of Environment, hospitals, an industrial park, and expanded employment opportunities as evidence of progress.
Fubara confirmed that 30 Ogoni youths have already secured employment with NNPC Ltd., describing it as a positive outcome of the renewed engagement.
National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who represented the President, thanked the Ogoni people and Rivers State authorities for their cooperation in addressing inherited challenges.
Ribadu noted that Rivers State has become one of the most peaceful states in the country due to collaborative leadership and community support.
Ogoniland hosts over 40 percent of the recoverable reserves in Oil Mining Lease 11, Nigeria’s largest onshore block operated by NNPC Exploration and Production Limited.
