Tinubu hosts Wike, Fubara, Ogoni leaders, unveils roadmap for peace, progress

In a landmark meeting that underscored the federal government’s commitment to resolving decades-long grievances in Ogoniland, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hosted a high-powered delegation from Rivers State at the State House, Abuja, on Tuesday. The meeting, which included Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, highlighted the President’s agenda for peace, justice, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

President Tinubu, in his address, urged the Ogoni people to embrace unity and reconciliation, setting aside historical grievances to focus on a brighter future. “We cannot in any way rewrite history, but we can correct some anomalies of the past going forward. We cannot heal the wounds if we continue to be angry,” he said, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue and collaboration.

The President tasked National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu with coordinating the peace and development efforts, calling for a cohesive partnership involving the Rivers State Government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and other stakeholders. Tinubu’s message was clear: mutual trust and collaboration are key to restoring peace, fostering development, and ensuring environmental renewal in Ogoniland.

Reflecting on his historical ties to the region, Tinubu recounted his long-standing relationship with Ogoni activists during the struggle against military dictatorship. “It has been many years since your children and myself partnered to resist military dictatorship in this country. No one dreamt I would be in this chair as President, but we thank God,” he said.

He pledged to honor the sacrifices of Ogoni leaders and ensure their legacy inspires meaningful change in the region.

Governor Fubara expressed gratitude to the President for his unwavering support and affirmed the Rivers State Government’s dedication to fulfilling the administration’s directives. “What we are doing here today is to concretise the love and respect we have for the President,” Fubara said, pledging to accelerate consultations aimed at resuming oil operations in Ogoniland—a move seen as pivotal for regional economic revitalization.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu highlighted the inclusive nature of the delegation, which comprised over 50 representatives reflecting Ogoni society’s rich diversity. “The presence of this delegation is a testament to the Ogoni people’s readiness to engage constructively in the pursuit of peace, justice, and sustainable development,” Ribadu stated.

Traditional leader King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII, the Gberemene of Gokana Kingdom, echoed this sentiment, expressing the community’s willingness to collaborate in resolving lingering challenges.

With President Tinubu’s directive to resume consultations and forge practical solutions, the meeting marked a critical step towards addressing the Ogoni people’s grievances and creating a roadmap for lasting peace and prosperity. By engaging key stakeholders and emphasizing reconciliation, Tinubu’s administration signaled its intent to transform Ogoniland into a symbol of justice and environmental restoration.

As efforts intensify, all eyes will remain on Abuja and Port Harcourt to see if the promises made translate into tangible change for Ogoniland.

Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin