Correcting Misconceptions Regarding Pipeline Vandalism in the Niger Delta by the Nigeria Chief of Army Staff

We,the Niger Delta Peace Advocates are a multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multireligious group based in Nigeria and we draw our membership from all ends of the Niger Delta region and beyond.

Our core goal is to advocate for the people of the Niger Delta area in Nigeria, and partner with corporate entities and individuals who have the best intentions and goals that align with the best interests of the people of this region.

We advocate for peace and justice and we support the delicate peace that the Federal Government and all critical stakeholders have been able to wrestle for the people of the Niger Delta.

Firstly, we want to congratulate Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu on his promotion as Chief of Army Staff (COAS).We also congratulate him of a successful tour of the troops and facilities of the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt. We want to thank him for his bold steps in addressing the welfare of the soldiers and their families in the division and pray that the promises made will become a reality for not just the 6th Division but to all our Nations Heroes who wear the uniform to defend our land and sovereignty.

Sir, in your address to the operatives in Port Harcourt on Friday, you stated that there was a rise in pipeline vandalism and oil theft, which has caused a reduction of our national wealth. With all due respect to your high office, we believe that your statement is an exaggeration and an avenue to underplay the great work that the companies engaged by the NNPCL to guard the nation's pipelines have achieved. You must admit that there has been a quantum leap in the wealth of our nation since the engagement of these companies to secure the pipelines. They have not just safeguarded the pipeline facilities but also helpedraise production from 800,000 barrels per day to 1.8 million barrels per day.

These companies have also been able to foster and create a sense of ownership for the indigenes where the pipeline passes, which in turn brings about community policing of the pipeline, and that doublesthe security and scrutiny of the facilities in question. The slight dip in production is not a function of vandalism but a brief shutdown of some production platforms where the workers were asking for a better welfare package, which is their right.

Sir, we applaud and appreciate the vigilance you have directed towards the Niger Delta and your being able to perceive the slight changes and fluctuations in oil production, in this, we celebrate you, Sir!. But Nigeria, being a country rich in more than one mineral resource, has a whole lot of solid minerals that need the urgent attention of the Army to safeguard. The illegal mining going on in the Northern parts of Nigeria is draining this country of economic potential gains that would have made us richer and more stable as a country.   

Sir, “what is good for the goose is also good for the gander .“ We pray that the vigilance you have displayed should be channelled to the highly unregulated mining of solid minerals in the Northern State, like Zamfara, and others states which are bleeding our nation of the much needed funds needed to build the Nigeria of the future for our children. We would also encourage you to charge the Divisions located in these states to tighten security and to safeguard these mines which are critical assets to our country and to help stem the negative impact these illegal activities are having on our economy. We will also encourage you follow suit with the Minister of Defence and prioritize the eradication of terrorism and terrorist groups and banditry pillaging the good citizens of our fair country.

Once again we say welcome to the frontline of safeguarding Nigeria and all it's assets and resources, we pray that Almighty God grants you wisdom to navigate and handle every aspect brought before you sir,

God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria

God Bless the good people of Nigeria

Yours truly

Barr Esimaje Awani

DG Niger Delta Peace Advocates

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