A group of Niger Delta youths have staged protests across the region, expressing strong objection to the recent allocation of oil block licenses to corporate entities and individuals who are not indigenous to the region.
The protests, which took place in major cities across the Niger Delta, were a reaction to the recent licensing round conducted by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
The youths, under the aegis of the Niger Delta Community Youths Association, argue that the allocation of oil blocks to non-indigenous entities is unjust and undermines the rights and interests of the Niger Delta people, whose land has been significantly impacted by oil exploration and production activities.
“The recent barefaced demeaning pattern of allocating oil-prospecting licenses to non-Niger-Delta interests is an unacceptable, unjustifiable, and anti-developmental trend of a high-wired plot against the people of Niger Delta,” stated Mr. Embale Jonathan, youth leader of the association.
The group has issued a three-point demand, including:
- 40% Equity for Niger Delta Indigenes: Immediate review of the oil-prospecting licenses to ensure that at least 40% of the number of oil blocks are allocated to indigenous companies and individuals from the Niger Delta region.
- Environmental Remediation and Compensation: A review of the commitment of oil bloc owners to environmental remediation of polluted waters and lands, along with the provision of adequate compensation to affected communities.
- Enhanced Corporate Social Responsibility: Enforcement of compliance in corporate social responsibility initiatives by licensed oil bloc owners, including employment, training programs, and support for local businesses in the region.
The protests come amidst growing concerns over the environmental degradation and social impacts of oil and gas activities in the Niger Delta region. The youths argue that the region, which has historically borne the brunt of oil exploration and production, deserves a greater share of the benefits.
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