Ijaw Youth Council Advocates for the Relocation of Oil Companies’ Headquarters to Niger Delta Region
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has issued a formal statement articulating their demands for the federal government, multinational oil companies, state governors, and interventionist agencies to address in the upcoming year. Representing the aspirations of the Ijaw people, the IYC has highlighted key issues including the relocation of oil companies’ headquarters to the Niger Delta, the review of the 3% Petroleum Industry Act, the implementation of the 2004 National Conference Report, and the necessity for true fiscal federalism.
The IYC’s position underscores the significance of these demands, which will serve as a guiding framework for their approach to addressing these pivotal issues in the year 2024 and beyond. Spokesperson for the IYC, Binebai Princewill, has emphasized the paramount importance of these matters and has called for the sincere attention of relevant stakeholders in addressing the concerns of the Ijaw community.
Central to the demands presented by the IYC is the plea for the relocation of multinational oil companies’ headquarters to the Niger Delta region. The IYC contends that it is inequitable for the region to host these companies without reaping the full benefits of their operations. They stress the imperative of a just and equitable allocation of benefits from the oil and gas sector, particularly for the Ijaw and Niger Delta people.
Furthermore, the IYC has urged interventionist agencies to prioritize the development of Ijaw and Niger Delta communities. They have underscored the crucial need for tangible infrastructure and developmental projects in the region, citing the urgent necessity for the construction of the Udo-Ofunama road as a critical project that would greatly benefit the Ijaw and Niger Delta people.
Moreover, the IYC has reiterated the call for the implementation of the 2014 National Conference Report, highlighting the significance of renegotiating Nigeria’s multi-ethnic structure to address the plights of minority groups. They have emphasized the need for equitable development in various Niger Delta states, emphasizing that Ijaw communities should not face marginalization or neglect.
The demand for fiscal federalism as a means of empowering all federating units in Nigeria was another significant point brought forth by the IYC. They have emphasized the necessity for justice and equitable resource control for the Ijaw and Niger Delta people, challenging the existing disparities in the distribution of resources.
Furthermore, the IYC has expressed dissatisfaction with the 3% allocation for host communities in the Petroleum Industry Act, labeling it as an aberration that does not adequately address the needs of the Niger Delta people. They have called for a reassessment of the percentage allocation to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of benefits.
Additionally, the IYC has demanded transparency in the employment practices of oil companies operating in the region, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the employment of indigenous people in these companies and ensuring equitable opportunities for the local workforce.
In conclusion, the IYC has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with security agencies and other critical stakeholders to maintain peace and unity in the region. They have called on the military to exercise professionalism in their interactions with Niger Delta communities, emphasizing the need to avoid unnecessary aggression towards defenseless communities.
In summary, the demands articulated by the Ijaw Youth Council reflect a deep-rooted yearning for justice, equity, and development in the Niger Delta region. It is imperative for relevant authorities and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue with the concerns raised by the IYC and work towards addressing the legitimate aspirations of the Ijaw people.
