Tinubu hails Ogoni re-entry as milestone for justice, national renewal
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the federal government’s re-entry into Ogoniland as a historic turning point for Nigeria, noting that the development goes beyond oil production to embody his Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises responsible investment, equity, and community development.
Speaking on Wednesday at the State House in Abuja during the presentation of the Ogoni Consultations Report, the President said the move reflects government’s recognition of the sacrifices and long years of pain endured by the Ogoni people. “We are not, as a government, taking lightly the years of pain endured in Ogoniland…We declare with conviction that hope is here and is back with us,” he stated.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, described the re-entry as a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to justice, healing, and national prosperity. He said the initiative demonstrates Nigeria’s capacity to confront its past and forge a new path anchored on fairness, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.
Ojulari commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for convening stakeholders to facilitate dialogue and consensus, as well as the work of Professor Don Baridam and members of the Presidential Committee, who produced a report that embodies fairness and inclusivity.
He pledged that NNPC would prioritise community engagement, infrastructure upgrades, and empowerment initiatives in Ogoni. According to him, road construction, infrastructure improvements, and economic empowerment programmes had already commenced to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation.
“NNPC Ltd is determined to transform Ogoniland from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress,” Ojulari said, stressing that operations would be anchored on justice, equity, sustainability, and collaboration with host communities.
Ribadu, in his remarks, said the breakthrough was made possible through sustained collaboration and transparent engagement, while Professor Baridam thanked the President for his commitment to the well-being of the Ogoni people.
Government officials noted that the re-entry carries a message for the international community, offering an example of how energy security can be pursued alongside environmental protection and community inclusion. For Nigeria, the development signals a new model of progress built on partnership between government, industry, and the people.
