Ogoni rebirth: NNPC hails Oil re-entry as symbol of national renewal

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has described the federal government’s re-entry into Ogoniland as a defining moment for Nigeria—marking not only a return to oil operations but also a powerful symbol of healing, justice, and national unity.

Speaking at the presentation of the Ogoni Consultations Report at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu underscored the emotional and symbolic importance of the initiative.

“This milestone reflects the spirit of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which commits to building a stronger country, attracting responsible investment and ensuring community development for national progress,” read a statement issued Friday by NNPC Ltd.’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh.

Acknowledging the long history of struggle in the region, Tinubu added:

> “We are not, as a government, taking lightly the years of pain endured in Ogoniland. We recognise that, otherwise we would not be here today. We declare with conviction that hope is here and is back with us.”

Echoing the President’s message, Mr. Bashir Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., said the re-entry initiative reaffirms NNPC’s commitment to justice and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

> “The re-entry into Ogoniland is not just about oil and gas. It is about justice, healing, and charting a new future for our nation,” Ojulari emphasized.

He noted that the effort represents a national turning point—demonstrating Nigeria’s capacity to address historical injustices and rebuild relationships with host communities.

> “Ogoni re-entry can be seen as both a test and an opportunity for the country. It demonstrates that equity can exist in national development, and oil can co-exist with environmental stewardship and inclusive nation-building.”

Ojulari praised the collaborative leadership that made the breakthrough possible, particularly commending the role of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, for initiating a multi-stakeholder platform that led to the consultative success.

He also acknowledged Professor Don Baridam and the Presidential Committee for their efforts in producing what he described as a fair, transparent, and inclusive report.

> “The lesson is that this journey cannot be driven solely by production volumes. It must be anchored on justice, equity, sustainability, and most importantly, collaboration with the very people whose land bears this wealth,” Ojulari said.

NNPC Ltd., according to him, has already launched key initiatives in road construction, infrastructure development, and local economic empowerment to rebuild trust and foster inclusive growth.

> “NNPC Ltd. is determined to transform Ogoni land from a symbol of conflict into a beacon of reconciliation, renewal, and sustainable progress,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, Malam Nuhu Ribadu noted that the progress achieved was a result of consistent and collaborative dialogue among all parties.

Professor Baridam, delivering remarks on behalf of the committee, expressed gratitude to the President for his steadfast support for the Ogoni people, noting that trust was restored through diplomacy and dialogue.

> “Through diplomacy and relentless insistence on dialogue, host community trust was earned, and hope restored,” Baridam said.