Abuja: Prof. Benjamin Okaba, Global President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), has identified poor execution as the primary challenge plaguing Nigeria’s oil industry, as opposed to a lack of policies.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okaba made these remarks during his presentation at the GbaramatuVoice 10th Anniversary Lecture and Night of Honour, held in Abuja. His paper, titled “Gaps and Silence in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Economy: Appraisal of Resource Control, Security and Media Dynamics,” emphasized the need for the Niger Delta’s ecological and social crises to be addressed with community-focused reforms. These reforms should align with the Petroleum Industry Act and prioritize domestic industrialization over export rents. Additionally, Okaba called for the funding of advocacy journalism to ensure that the issues are not ignored.
He stressed the importance of addressing the monumental gaps and silences in Nigeria, which extend beyond the oil sector to education, healthcare, agriculture, and more. Okaba attributed these challenges to unaddressed constitutional infractions, systemic corruption, and mass indiscipline, which have left many citizens frustrated and disenchanted.
Okaba urged collective action to reset the nationhood and restore national pride, prosperity, and dignity. He highlighted the critical role of the media in showcasing the challenges faced by Niger Delta communities, urging politicians and policymakers to govern with justice in mind.
In his address, Okaba emphasized that the Niger Delta should no longer seek approval from institutions that have consistently failed to acknowledge its struggles. He declared that the region’s wounds and cries are visible and audible, and that it is time for genuine empowerment rather than mere exposure.