Port Harcourt, Jan. 30, 2025 (Naija247news) – The Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF) has urged the Federal Government to ensure the inclusion of youth and women leaders in discussions regarding the planned resumption of oil and gas exploration in Ogoniland.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Speaking at the Ogoni Youth Stakeholders Extraordinary Meeting in Port Harcourt on Thursday, OYF President General, Yamaabana Legborsi, emphasized that while Ogoni youths are not opposed to oil production, their exclusion from critical deliberations is unacceptable.
“We appeal for proper inclusion and representation moving forward. The oversight of youth and women stakeholders in discussions with President Bola Tinubu does not sit well with us,” Legborsi stated while reading a communiqué signed by 26 Ogoni youth leaders.
Ogoni Youths Seek Active Role in Decision-Making
Legborsi noted that youths are the future leaders of Ogoni and Nigeria, and their involvement in major discussions will ensure sustainability and accountability in the oil resumption process.
He commended President Tinubu for taking steps to end the 35-year struggle for economic, political, and environmental justice in Ogoniland, which had led to a long-standing dispute between the Ogoni people, the Federal Government, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), and other stakeholders.
“We welcome the resumption of oil exploration, believing that the approach this time will be different from past experiences. However, we insist that Ogoni people be included in talks regarding the nomination and approval of investors for OML 11/51,” Legborsi added.
He announced that the Ogoni Youth Federation had set up a steering committee to interface with other Ogoni leaders and engage in further negotiations with the government.
Yobo, Ogoni Leaders Back Inclusion of Youth and Women
Former Super Eagles Captain, Joseph Yobo, also voiced support for the inclusion of youth and women in the deliberations.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated his support for youth and women across Africa. We appeal to him to ensure that young people and women are actively involved in this process,” Yobo said.
Legborsi also acknowledged the efforts of key figures such as Rivers State Governor Siminilayi Fubara, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Ogoni leaders for attracting investment opportunities to the region.
As discussions on oil exploration progress, Ogoni youths have reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful engagement while pushing for fair representation and long-term benefits for their communities.
