The re-entry into Ogoniland marks a historic turning point for Nigeria — one that goes beyond oil production and reflects the spirit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The initiative commits to strengthening the nation, attracting responsible investment, and ensuring that community development remains central to national progress.
Speaking during the presentation of the Ogoni Consultations Report at the State House, Abuja, on Wednesday, President Tinubu acknowledged the decades of pain endured by the Ogoni people and reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of their sacrifices.
“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.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the development as a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to justice, healing, and inclusive growth.
“The re-entry into Ogoniland is not just about oil and gas. It is about justice, healing, and charting a new future for our nation,” he stated.
Ojulari stressed that the milestone demonstrates Nigeria’s resolve to confront its past, honour sacrifices, and create a new path that balances prosperity with environmental stewardship. He commended the leadership of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for convening diverse stakeholders through a Presidential Committee led by Professor Don Baridam, which fostered dialogue and consensus that made the breakthrough possible.
He further assured that NNPC Ltd will sustain trust by prioritising community engagement, investing in infrastructure, and empowering local enterprise. According to him, initiatives in road construction, infrastructure upgrades, and economic empowerment are already underway.
“NNPC Ltd is determined to transform Ogoniland from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress,” Ojulari concluded.
Ribadu, in his remarks, highlighted that the process proved sustainable progress is achievable through collaboration and transparency. Professor Baridam, on behalf of the Committee, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to the Ogoni people, noting that diplomacy and dialogue restored host community trust and hope.
Observers note that the Ogoni re-entry also sends a message to the international community — that resource-rich nations like Nigeria can balance environmental protection with energy security. By centering community benefit, Nigeria is offering the world a model of how energy development can co-exist with local aspirations, environmental stewardship, and inclusive nation-building.
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