Youths from Ogoniland in Rivers State have called for at least 500 employment opportunities from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as preparations continue for the possible return of oil exploration in the area.
The demand was made by the Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF), which said the 40 job opportunities reportedly allocated to Ogoni youths by NNPCL and its subsidiaries were inadequate.
Speaking in Port Harcourt during the inauguration of a planning committee for the proposed Ogoni Youth National Congress, OYF President-General, Legborsi Yamaabana, said the congress would provide a platform for youths to discuss concerns surrounding the proposed resumption of oil activities.
Yamaabana acknowledged the Federal Government’s renewed interest in restarting oil exploration in Ogoniland after more than three decades of suspension. However, he stressed that the process must take into account the interests of the Ogoni people, particularly young people.
He said the benefits of any oil resumption should include fair employment opportunities, environmental protection and meaningful participation by the communities affected by oil production.
The OYF leader urged Ogoni leaders and youths not to allow the reported 40 employment slots to create disagreements within the community. He described the number as inadequate considering the economic and environmental sacrifices made by the people over the years.
According to him, the youth federation will use its proposed national congress to formally push for a minimum of 500 direct jobs for qualified Ogoni youths across NNPCL and its subsidiaries.
He noted that many young people in Ogoniland had faced limited economic opportunities during the 33-year period in which oil activities remained suspended in the area.
Yamaabana also expressed concern over attempts by some individuals to undermine efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful return of oil exploration.
The planning committee for the congress has been tasked with developing a framework for the event and mobilising youth groups and other stakeholders across Ogoniland. The organisers said the congress would combine physical and virtual participation.
