FG Team Inspects Landmark Ogoni Projects as Oil Exploration Resumption Nears

A high-powered delegation from the Federal Government on Tuesday undertook an extensive tour of critical infrastructure projects across Ogoniland, Rivers State, in a renewed push to build trust ahead of plans to restart oil exploration in the oil-rich region.

The team, headed by Hon. Ojukaye Flag-Amachree, Director of Energy Security in the Office of the National Security Adviser, visited multiple sites, including the ongoing East-West Road construction, several general hospitals (Nchia, Taabaa, Terabor, K-Dere), the proposed Industrial Park, Ogoni Specialist Hospital in Tai, and the Federal University of Environment Technology, Saakpenwa, which houses the Center of Excellence for Environmental Restoration.

During the inspection, the delegation assessed the progress of these projects, which are cornerstones of the federal government’s confidence-building framework agreed upon with the Ogoni people. This initiative forms part of previously negotiated measures with the Ogoni Dialogue Committee, representing grassroots and community interests, aimed at ensuring fair dialogue, development, and environmental restoration before any oil activity resumes.

Prof. Don Baridam, Chairman of the Ogoni Dialogue Committee and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Environment Technology, affirmed the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and justice: “We have reached a point where every Ogoni voice counts in this negotiation. Our communities, women, youth, and the diaspora have all contributed to shaping final demands ahead of renewed oil operations,” he noted. Prof. Baridam expressed optimism that classes at the new university will commence by October 2025, pending final preparations and further assessments with the incoming vice-chancellor.

Community stakeholders and government negotiators reiterated that ongoing dialogue remains focused on addressing the region’s longstanding grievances, environmental justice, and sustainable benefit-sharing—even as some community groups have called for further assurances that previous injustices would not be repeated.

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President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have mandated that oil production can only resume after comprehensive consultations and clear progress on development and restoration, including the infrastructural projects inspected this week.

The inspection marks a significant step in bridging decades-long divides, as government and community representatives look towards a future of renewed cooperation—linking oil sector revival to tangible local development and environmental repair.