FG’s quest to halt illegal oil activities in Niger Delta, achievable- Stakeholders

Some stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, have said the quest by the Federal government to halt illegal oil activities in the region was achievable.

The stakeholders comprising the Niger Delta indigenous Contractors association(NDICA) and and the contractors association of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) stated this yesterday in Port Harcourt , Rivers State.

According them, there is increased advocacy, sensitization and various upscaling strategies adopted by the NDDC which is helping to divert the attention of the youths from illegalities to engaging in meaningful ventures.

The National President of the NDICA, Dressman Darlington-Gbolobofa said, “The sensitization of youths of Niger Delta communities on dangers and grave implications of pipeline vandalization, illegal oil bunkering, and refining activities in the region by NDDC is apt and will undoubtedly lead the way in upholding the Federal Government’s quest to halt illegal bunkering in the region ”

The President of the group also noted that the vexed issues of non -payment of contractors after executing jobs for the NDDC has been laid to rest.

It was gathered that the Commission has started a thought out strategy to pay contractors starting with small tickets which constitute about 60 percent of its debt to contractors.

Darlington-Gbolobofa said, the move underscored genuine intention by the Commission to do things rightly under Samuel Ogbuku led administration

He noted that the improvement was sequel to interactive sessions with stakeholders and contractors association in the region where both parties listened to each other and proffered way forward.

He said, such people- centred administrative style has significantly boosted the positive public perception of the Commission as well as the government.

The national President added that , the stakeholders are genuinely interested in the sucess and development of the region and urged President Bola Tinubu to consider and confirm the present administration led by Ogbuku for reappointment to enable them continue with programme that are bringing stability in the region.

He also also requested for prompt release of funds to the Commission and called on the International Oil Companies (IOCs), and gas processing companies operating in the region to fastrack the release of funds to enable the management team consolidate on their resolve to clear all liabilities bedevelling the commission.