Now Reading: Nigerian Government Seeks to Revitalize Oil Production in Ogoniland Post-Shell Exit
-
01
Nigerian Government Seeks to Revitalize Oil Production in Ogoniland Post-Shell Exit
Nigerian Government Seeks to Revitalize Oil Production in Ogoniland Post-Shell Exit
Following Shell’s divestment of its onshore assets in Nigeria for $2.4 billion, the federal government is engaging local communities to restart oil production in Ogoniland. This move comes after decades of environmental concerns and conflicts between oil companies and host communities.
Shell ceased operations in Ogoniland in 1993 following massive protests led by the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa. The protests highlighted widespread pollution, loss of livelihoods, and human rights abuses.
The government’s new plan involves engaging indigenous companies to take over Shell’s abandoned fields while ensuring that environmental remediation efforts are completed. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Ekperikpe Ekpo, stated that the government is prioritizing dialogue with community leaders to avoid the mistakes of the past.
However, many Ogoni residents remain skeptical about renewed oil operations, citing concerns about pollution and broken promises. Civil society groups have urged the government to first address environmental cleanup efforts before resuming production.
