By Francis Wilfred
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing ecological and environmental challenges affecting oil-producing communities in Nigeria. The assurance was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, during a courtesy visit by traditional rulers from Okpe Kingdom, led by the Orodje of Okpe, Felix Mujakperuo, in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the SGF, Akume acknowledged that decades of oil exploration have contributed to environmental issues in host communities, including coastal and gully erosion, flooding, and pollution.
He said the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, through the Ecological Project Office, will collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Environment to develop strategic interventions to address the concerns raised.
Akume commended oil-producing communities for safeguarding national assets such as oil wells and pipelines, noting their contribution to Nigeria’s economy. He also reiterated the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to sustainable environmental management and capacity development.
The SGF added that International Oil Companies operating in host communities are expected to fulfil their statutory Corporate Social Responsibility obligations. Earlier, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom said the delegation sought federal intervention to address ecological challenges in Ugbokodo community, Okpe Local Government Area. He cited shoreline erosion, land loss, pollution, and recurring flooding, and appealed for shoreline protection, land reclamation, and improved road infrastructure.
