Abuja:The Niger Delta Youth Council Worldwide (NDYCW) and Niger Delta Communities in Northern Nigeria have called for unity among the people of the Niger Delta to support legitimate efforts aimed at protecting vital oil and gas infrastructure in the region. This appeal was part of a joint statement released in Abuja, signed by NDYCW National Coordinator Comrade Jator Abido and Paramount Ruler (Sarkin Ruwa) of the Niger Delta Communities in Northern Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the organizations warned against baseless hostility, unfounded allegations, and divisive campaigns that could disrupt peace, unity, and development in the oil-producing region. They advocated for responsible public discourse, constructive engagement, and stronger cooperation among stakeholders to safeguard the region’s economic interests and promote sustainable development.
The statement emphasized the importance of supporting allegations with verifiable facts and credible evidence, particularly concerning pipeline surveillance operations and other contractual arrangements. It cautioned that spreading unverified information and personal grievances could mislead the public and weaken collective efforts to protect national infrastructure.
Comrade Abido highlighted the critical role of pipeline surveillance and protection in maintaining Nigeria’s economic stability, crude oil production, and the livelihoods of communities in the region. He urged the Niger Delta people to reject baseless narratives and address genuine concerns through evidence and dialogue.
The NDYCW leadership praised Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for its collaboration with host communities and regular stakeholder engagement meetings. Such meetings were noted as vital for building trust and resolving grievances among traditional rulers, youth representatives, women leaders, and other community stakeholders.
The groups called on other international oil companies and contractors to adopt similar engagement frameworks that promote consultation and timely responses to community concerns. They emphasized that effective pipeline protection requires mutual understanding, community cooperation, and responsible leadership.
Furthermore, the organizations acknowledged the importance of collaboration among surveillance personnel, security agencies, and residents in preventing vandalism and other disruptive activities. They urged Niger Delta youths, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations to prioritize the region’s common interests over personal disagreements.
Accountability and transparency were highlighted as central to the operations of companies protecting national infrastructure. The organizations urged stakeholders to distinguish legitimate scrutiny from unfounded allegations and to rely on facts for raising concerns.
Finally, the groups called on PINL and other operators to ensure meaningful engagement with host communities, fulfill contractual responsibilities, and emphasize peace, environmental responsibility, youth empowerment, and development in oil-producing areas. They reiterated that addressing the socioeconomic needs of host communities would strengthen public confidence and contribute to the long-term protection of infrastructure.