Niger Delta: How Ogonis Are Reaping Bountifully From The Struggle Against Exploitation

● Tinubu signs bill to establish Federal University of  Environmental Technology

By PHC Telegraph

President  Bola Tinubu has just signed a bill for the establishment of a federal university in Ogoniland.

When completed, this will bring the number of federal universities operating in Rivers State to two.

Known as the Federal University of Environmental Technology, the institution will be expected to contribute to the study and alleviation of environmental challenges facing the Niger Delta region.

It will also be expected to train a new generation of environmentalists whose mission would include dealing with climate change.

The signing of the bill is the highpoint of efforts being made by the administration of President Tinubu to create a conducive atmosphere for the return of Ogoni oil to the international spot market.

For years, after the Ogonis rose against Shell Petroleum Development Company, Ogoni oil has been locked down, with the natives resisting attempts to allow Shell any access to oil wells in their terrain.

The President had earlier invited Ogoni leaders as well as Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike to a meeting where Ogoni issues were openly discussed.

Already, the President has similarly given appointments to Ogoni sons, including the leadership of the Green Wall Project to Senator Magnus Abe.

Recall that the United Nations under the Buhari administration had commenced the cleanup of Ogoniland polluted by years of oil exploration activities.

It is however not known if the Ogoni would allow Shell which enjoyed the concession in the past to return,  or if a new firm would be given the mandate to go ahead with oil exploration in the area.