…says project would boost nation’s economy
Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli, has urged the Federal Government to commence work on the abandoned $16 billion Ogidigben gas project, saying that the project would have multiplier effect on the socio economic development of Delta State, Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
He noted that the project which groundbreaking was done seven years ago by his predecessor, former President Goodluck Jonathan, was what should engage Nigeria’s full priority considering its economic importance to the nation.
The Itsekiri monarch made the appeal yesterday during his fifth coronation anniversary held at Olu of Warri Palace, Ajamoigha in Warri South Local Government area noting that the project
On the Gas Revolution Industrial Park/EPZ Project in Ogidigben, the monarch declared ” again, this is a project that is dear to us as a people. This is more so as it is of immense benefit to the nation, in terms of gas utilization, instead of flaring and wasting such critical money spinning asset.
“When the groundbreaking ceremony was done in January 2015, our hopes were very high for the nation at large. Since then, not much has been done”, he lamented.
Olu of Warri therefore appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to direct commencement of work on the project just as he is doing in other sectors geared towards developing the nation.
The monarch also expressed displeasure over the incompleteness of the dredging of Escravos bar for Warri and Koko ports and appealed to the Minister of Transport, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, to complete the process of dredging what he described as important channels.
He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the progress of work on the Koko-Ogheye road which will reduce the hours of travelling to Lagos but urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to “fund the project, complete it and open the Benin River corridor all the way to Lagos”.
The Olu promised to sustain the existing relationship with Itsekiri neighbours, mostly the Ijaws, Urhobos, Ilajes and several others.
“Let me reiterate my avowed commitment to peace and cooperation with all our neighbours, as we continue to live together in this same environment. We, however, must point out that whatever grievances they have, should be pursued in a way that will continue to engender peaceful coexistence and discourage violence and bloodshed.
“No human needs, wants, demands or ambition is worth the blood of any of our people. We therefore stand ready and prepared to do all that we can to continue to promote peace and contribute to the security of lives and national assets in our kingdom within the three Warri Local Government areas”, he assured.
Prominent Itsekiris and Ijaws witnessed the colourful ceremony held at Olu of Warri Palace, Ajamoigha in Warri South local government area of Delta state.