By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo
So much is going on, The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recently made the decision to relocate eight departments to Lagos in a bid to decongest its Abuja office. Weeks later, FAAN, a parastatal of the Ministry of Aviation moved key departments to Lagos as well. The latest is the announcement by the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission that it is also moving key departments to Lagos for operational efficiency. They have no business in Lagos but the Niger Delta.
Somebody is beating the drums and the department heads are dancing and justifying their actions.
While debates about this move continue, it is imperative to focus on another crucial matter that demands attention. In the spirit of equity and natural justice, it is essential that President Tinubu recognizes the clamor from Niger Delta activists and takes the bold step of ordering all international oil companies currently based in Lagos to move their headquarters to the Niger Delta. This action is imperative as it addresses the gross imbalance in taxation and supports the region that has diligently contributed to Nigeria’s oil industry while enduring the adverse environmental effects.
- Addressing the Inequity:
The current situation, where oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region pay heavy taxes to Lagos State, is a clear demonstration of unfairness and an infringement on the principles of equity and natural justice. It is time to rectify this imbalance and ensure that the region responsible for the country’s oil wealth receives its fair share. - Recognizing the Contributions of the Niger Delta:
The Niger Delta region has been the backbone of Nigeria’s oil industry for decades. Its petroleum resources have fueled the nation’s economic growth and development. Despite its contributions, the Niger Delta has suffered from severe environmental degradation, affecting the livelihoods and health of its inhabitants. Moving the oil company headquarters to the Niger Delta would be a step towards addressing the historical injustice faced by this region. - Economic Empowerment and Development:
Relocating the headquarters of international oil companies to the Niger Delta will bring significant economic benefits to the region. It will attract investments, generate employment opportunities, and stimulate infrastructure development. This move will empower the local communities and uplift their socio-economic conditions, ultimately leading to a more equitable distribution of wealth. - Environmental Responsibility and Accountability:
The environmental impact of oil exploration and exploitation in the Niger Delta cannot be understated. The region has suffered from devastating oil spills, pollution, and degradation of ecosystems, leading to serious health consequences for its residents. By moving the oil company headquarters to the Niger Delta, there will be increased accountability and responsibility for the environmental impact of operations, ensuring that the region’s natural resources are protected and rehabilitated appropriately. - Commitment to National Unity:
Ordering the relocation of oil company headquarters to the Niger Delta would demonstrate the government’s commitment to national unity and the well-being of all regions. It would address longstanding grievances and provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the government, communities, and the oil industry, fostering a harmonious relationship built on trust and fairness.
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