FG holds meeting with over 50 militant leaders in Abuja

In its bid to end the incessant pipeline bombings in the Niger Delta region, the Federal Government on Wednesday, May 25, held a meeting over 50 militant leaders at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, Kachikwu said that the militant leaders have resolved to work with government to stop the recent upsurge in attacks on critical oil and gas installations and ensure security, stability and economic development of the region.

The Minister also disclosed that all the stakeholders resolved that solutions to the incessant attacks on oil and gas pipelines are within the communities, emphasising that communities were now saddled with the responsibility of ensuring the protection of pipelines within their domain.

According to him, all the states in the region will nominate four or five representatives who will work hand-in-hand with security agencies to secure oil facilities in their respective states.

He said it was also resolved at the meeting that all threats from the region should end because violence is not an option in resolving the problems of the Niger Delta.

On the complacency of government and the international oil companies on the the amnesty programme, Kachikwu said there is the need to restructure the programme so as to address the critical issue of neglect by the two parties.

“The Niger Delta Governors must be involved in providing lasting solutions to the resurgence of pipeline vandalism and there is urgent need to create business opportunities for the locals in the region,” NNPC spokesman, Garba Deen Muhammad, quoted the Minister as saying.

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Present at the top security meeting with the militants were the National Security Adviser, Major-General Babagana Monguno (rtd)., Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachukwu, Niger Delta Minister, Pastor Uguru Usani Uguru, the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Brig-Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), and Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole.