Featured

OML 25: Shell, Communities Broker Peace …Sign MoU July1, Reopen Flow Station

Published

7 years ago

June 28, 2019

The stakeholder communities of Oil Mining License (OML) 25 in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) have agreed on the procedures for the re-opening of the oil facility.
As such, the stakeholder communities and Shell will on Monday, July 1, 2019 sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be facilitated by the Rivers State Government on their respective responsibilities in the final resolution of the two-year old conflict.
This was the outcome of the meeting, yesterday, between the stakeholder communities of OML 25, SPDC, service commanders and officials of the Rivers State Government on the directive of Governor Nyesom Wike.
To this end, the representative of the Rivers State Governor and Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, has directed the Solicitor-General of the State to draft a memorandum of understanding on the premise of the resolutions reached at the meeting.
He also said that the memorandum of understanding would be signed on Monday, July 1, 2019.
Danagogo outlined the four key resolutions reached during the crucial meeting on the re-opening of OML 25, to include that, “SPDC should pay the agreed funds into an account. The Permanent Secretary, Community Affairs has been mandated to ensure that the funds are transferred to the communities.
“SPDC should be able to pay the available sum latest by Monday. Shell would pay N260million and N75million by Monday.
“The communities should within seven days of signing the resolution, vacate the facility. Also within two weeks, Shell should pay the remaining part of N1.014billion”
The Secretary to the Rivers State Government added that the meeting resolved that SPDC would therefore obtain approval from NAPIMS to pay the money that accrued between 2009 and 2013.
He added that within two weeks of signing the resolution, Rivers State Government will set up a platform for Shell and stakeholder communities to renegotiate the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU).
The General Manager, External Relations of Shell Petroleum Development Company, Mr Igo Weli said the first set of funds to the stakeholder communities will be paid on Monday.
He stressed that the outcome of the financial reconciliations will be paid within two weeks of signing the resolution.
Weli added that SPDC, in line with the resolution of the meeting, would seek the approval of NAPIMs for payment of funds for 2009 and 2013.
The Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Rowland Sekibo said that the meeting initiated by the Rivers State governor has recorded a milestone with agreement on the funds to be paid by SPDC.
Member of the Rivers State House of Assembly representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 1, Major Jack commended the Rivers State Government, SPDC and stakeholder communities for building synergy which will end in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Monday.
Amanyanabo of Opu-Kula, King Hope Opusingi said that the people of the area were happy with the agreement reached at the meeting, especially the reconciliation of the funds to be paid by SPDC.
He said those occupying the flow station were being paid to do so, adding that technically, the flow station has been opened as the occupants of the facility were doing so illegally.
Also speaking, the Amanyanabo of Kula, King Kroma Eleki called for the development of Kula upon the reopening of OML 25, appealing that the developmental challenges of the community should be resolved.
It would be recalled that Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike on June 22, 2019, directed the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, to convene a meeting of all key stakeholders in the presence of security service commanders, for the host communities to outline their grievances to Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and for the company to address such development concerns.
Earlier during the first meeting, the Rivers State Government reiterated that the Oil Mining License (OML) 25 must be re-opened for operations with the interest of host communities protected by the operating company, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
The host communities of OML 25 also stated their developmental concerns, urging SPDC to address them for mutually beneficial relationship with the company to be entrenched.
In a meeting the state government convened between the host communities and SPDC, the representative of Rivers State Governor and Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, said that Governor Nyesom Wike remains committed to the protection of host communities’ interest.
He said: “The flow station of that facility must be opened. For that to happen, we think that the interest of the host communities must be protected, so that in future, we don’t have a repeat of what happened.
“That is why it is in the best interest of everybody concerned to state very genuine concerns of what Shell has to do”.
He said that the Rivers State Government was discharging its responsibility of ensuring the peaceful resolution of the issues.
“At the initial stage, we didn’t want to get involved because we felt that the Shell licence was almost terminating. But at this stage, it is clear to everybody that the Federal Government has renewed the licence of Shell for another 20 years. What it means is that for the next 20 years, Shell must be there.
“As a law abiding government, what we will do is to see that Shell does not trample upon the rights of our people. So, now, Shell will listen to our people on what they ought to do”, he said.
He urged the communities to do what is right; assuring that the state government would, on that premise, prevail on Shell to release the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) funds.
In his remarks, General Manager, External Relations of Shell, Mr Igo Weli said that the SPDC was ready to dialogue with the communities and resolve the issues raised.
Weli said that the existing GMoU has expired, but assured that working with the communities, another GMoU would be worked out for the development of the communities.
“The third one is retaining of fund. The fund for each community is stipulated in the GMoU, and each community will have their community trust, and even though one community has a problem, we can give you your money to go ahead.
“So, once we do it properly, specify how much belongs to each community, have your own community trust, one community will not hold the other communities down. If you have a problem, we localise the problem and sort out the one we can operate. That’s what we have been doing”, Weli added.
He disclosed that there was N960million on ground outstanding from the previous GMoU, saying that the company was ready to invest the funds.
“There is no perfect solution. Once we get 80 per cent of the people to agree, then, let’s do it. We want to operate in a way that all stakeholders will feel recognised. There are rules. Once we agree on the rules, we will move forward. The GMoU will be modified to meet the new realities”, he said.
Also speaking, the Amanyanabo of Kula, King Kroma Eleki alleged that Shell had worked with a section of the kingdom and marginalised others, insisting that some community leaders also created the atmosphere for the marginalisation of the kingdom.
He said that when Shell started operations, it was agreed that 60 per cent of proceeds must go to Kula community and 30 per cent to Belema, but regretted that Shell failed to respect the agreement.
Eleki said though the Federal Government can open the OML 25, Shell should carry out its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) diligently to the communities, and also called on the Federal Government to work towards protecting the interest of the host communities.
Amanyanabo of Belema, King Ibinabo Kalaoriye said Belema was the host community, but all the funds meant for the host community were diverted to Kula.
He said that OML 25 was illegally occupied by some persons who connived with another set of soldiers to take over the facility.
Kalaoriye said that going forward; no funds meant for the development of Belema community should be sent to Kula, explaining that despite the challenges, Shell had executed some important projects in the area as a result of the existence of the OML 25.
Also speaking, the Amanyanabo of Opu-Kula, King Hope Opusingi said Shell should come out clean and declare the funds due the communities on the basis of the GMoU.
He said that the meeting should agree on the amount of the funds that Shell should invest and the communities that are entitled to the investment.
The meeting had in attendance the Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Hon Rowland Sekibo, the member representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 1 at the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon Major Jack and member representing Akuku-Toru Constituency 2 at the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon Opuende Lolo, and the community development committees of the stakeholder communities of OML 25.

Featured

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

Published

1 day ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

Editorial

Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

Published

1 day ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.

Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.

The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.

However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.

President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.

In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.

The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.

The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.

The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.

On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.

In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.

To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.

In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.

In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.

Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.

Featured

WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

Published

2 weeks ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice, saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks, a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi