The Federal Government has attributed the recent oil spills in Ogoni land to oil theft, with criminals causing significant damage to critical oil assets in the region. National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, made this assertion during an on-the-spot inspection of the oil spill site at Kpean community’s Yorle 14 Field in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Ribadu, alongside other key officials such as the Minister of Environment, Balaraba Lawal, and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, toured the site to assess the damage and discuss measures to address the situation.

Damage from Oil Theft and Recovery Efforts

During the visit, Ribadu described the situation as “very sad,” emphasizing the long history of the affected well, which has been in operation for over 30 years. He pointed out that oil thieves, driven by selfish motives, have targeted the facility to steal crude oil, causing severe environmental damage.

Ribadu expressed concern over the extent of the damage, saying, “The damage they are doing is incredible.” However, he reassured the public that the government has intervened and that efforts to stop the spill and recover the affected area are ongoing. “It has been stopped and recovery is ongoing,” Ribadu confirmed.

Community Engagement Key to Solution

Ribadu also highlighted the importance of engaging with the local Ogoni community to ensure sustainable solutions. He mentioned that the Federal Government’s approach to addressing the issue is community-driven, focusing on listening to the needs of local residents and responding appropriately.

As part of this engagement, Ribadu’s team visited various local institutions, including a university and health clinics, showcasing the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of the Ogoni people.

Federal Government’s Commitment to Peace and Reconciliation

The NSA lauded the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in fostering peace, reconciliation, and development in Ogoni land, calling it a significant shift from the challenges of the past. “Ogoni today is different from what it used to be,” Ribadu said, urging all citizens to work together for the collective good. He appealed for cooperation, emphasizing that the wealth from oil resources belongs to all Nigerians, not just a few individuals who exploit it for selfish gain.

“We want to use this opportunity to appeal to people. Let’s work together for the good of all of us,” Ribadu added. He acknowledged the efforts of the state government and local government officials in managing the situation, reiterating that Ogoni’s transformation is already underway.

Focus on Clean-Up and Sustainable Development

Minister of Environment, Balaraba Lawal, assured the public that the Ogoni clean-up project would remain a priority for the ministry. She highlighted the ongoing progress of projects recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), including mangrove restoration, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women empowerment initiatives.

NNPCL’s Bayo Ojulari also reaffirmed the oil company’s commitment to the dialogue process with the Ogoni community. He emphasized that, moving forward, the focus would shift from oil extraction to the well-being of the people, with efforts to ensure more inclusive development.

Job Creation and Community Empowerment

One of the key outcomes of the ongoing dialogue between NNPCL and the Ogoni people is the employment of local indigenes. Ojulari revealed that the NNPCL had finalized the hiring of 30 Ogoni indigenes, with appointment letters already issued and the new employees set to begin their roles in January 2026.

This move is part of a broader effort to empower the Ogoni people and ensure that they benefit directly from the oil resources in their region, beyond the environmental and economic challenges that have historically plagued them.

Moving Forward: A Unified Approach for Ogoni’s Future

Ribadu concluded his remarks by urging citizens to continue supporting the government’s efforts to restore peace and development in Ogoni land. “Ogoni is changing and it will change, by the grace of God,” he said, stressing that collaboration among the Federal, state, and local governments, alongside the active participation of the community, is vital for lasting change.

In summary, the Federal Government is taking decisive action to address the oil spills in Ogoni land, focusing on stopping illegal activities, engaging the community, and ensuring sustainable development that benefits all stakeholders.