The Federal Government has indicated that the long-delayed resumption of oil exploration in Ogoniland could mark a major turning point for Nigeria’s economy, security, and national stability, after more than three decades of suspension.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, made this known while speaking on the broader economic and security implications of restarting oil activities in the oil-rich Ogoni area of Rivers State.
Ribadu described Ogoni as a symbol of Nigeria’s unresolved contradictions, noting that the region’s vast oil wealth has remained untapped for over 30 years due to environmental degradation, community resistance, and prolonged conflict.
He said the government now views the possible restart of oil exploration in Ogoniland not merely as an economic project, but as a strategic national intervention with the potential to reshape Nigeria’s fiscal outlook.
According to Ribadu, Nigeria’s current economic challenges, including revenue shortfalls, rising debt, and foreign exchange pressures, make it imperative to explore all legitimate means of boosting national income.
He stressed that Ogoni oil, if responsibly and transparently managed, could contribute significantly to national production levels and help stabilize government finances.
Ribadu noted that the Federal Government is approaching the issue with caution, emphasizing that lessons have been learned from the past and that mistakes that led to conflict and environmental devastation must not be repeated.
He explained that renewed engagement with Ogoni communities is central to the government’s plan, adding that no oil activity would resume without dialogue, consent, and trust-building measures.
The NSA acknowledged the painful history surrounding oil exploration in Ogoniland, including the execution of environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni leaders in 1995, which led to international outrage and the eventual shutdown of oil operations.
He said that history continues to shape local and global perceptions of Ogoni oil, making transparency and environmental responsibility non-negotiable.
Ribadu further disclosed that the government is working with relevant agencies to ensure that security, environmental remediation, and community development are addressed alongside any plans to resume exploration.
He pointed to the ongoing implementation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recommendations on Ogoni cleanup as a foundation for rebuilding trust.
The NSA added that peace in the Niger Delta remains a national security priority, warning that economic exclusion and unresolved grievances often fuel instability.
He argued that responsibly harnessing Ogoni oil could create jobs, reduce youth restiveness, and send a strong signal that Nigeria is serious about inclusive development.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that discussions around Ogoni oil have intensified in recent months as Nigeria struggles to meet its OPEC production quota due to pipeline vandalism, oil theft, and operational shutdowns in other regions.
Nigeria’s crude oil production has remained below potential levels, forcing the government to rely heavily on borrowing to fund budgets and social programmes.
Ribadu maintained that reviving Ogoni oil production could help reverse this trend if managed within a framework of peace, justice, and environmental sustainability.
He warned, however, that rushing the process without community buy-in could worsen tensions and undermine national objectives.
The NSA reiterated that the Tinubu administration is determined to balance economic recovery with social justice and environmental responsibility.
He concluded that Ogoni oil represents both a historic burden and a future opportunity, adding that Nigeria’s ability to handle it wisely could define the country’s next chapter.
DDM reports that government consultations with Ogoni stakeholders, environmental groups, and international partners are expected to intensify in the coming months as the debate over restarting oil exploration continues.
