By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Association of Niger Delta Monarchs of Nigeria (ANDMON) has called on stakeholders to support the Federal Government in curbing pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the region.

Chairman of the association, HM Frank Okurakpo, Odhe II, made the call in a statement on Saturday.

He said this during an interactive meeting between ANDMON and stakeholders in the Amnesty, Pipeline Surveillance, and Energy sectors in Port Harcourt.

The traditional ruler stated that the association is committed to accelerating development in all towns and villages in the Niger Delta.

“The association is willing to collaborate and partner with the federal government, multinational organisations, and other critical stakeholders to restore peace in the region.

“We are keen to achieve the federal government’s desire to meet and exceed the OPEC production quota,” he said.

Okurakpo commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a “grassroots mobiliser” from the Niger Delta, Dr Dennis Otuaro, as the head of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

“This is one appointment that gladdens the heart of our people. No doubt, the programme is recording remarkable success across the Niger Delta region.

“We, therefore, lend our voice to the demand for increased budgetary provisions and the timely release of appropriated funds,” he said.

He also lauded the Tinubu-led administration for renewing the pipeline surveillance contract with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. (TSSNL), saying it will help curb pipeline vandalism.

“It is worthy to note that TSSNL has exceeded the expectations of the Nigerian public in its determination to reduce pipeline vandalism and oil theft to the barest minimum,” he said.

The chairman called on Niger Delta communities to support the federal government’s efforts to ramp up oil production and protect oil facilities in the region.

He expressed confidence that Nigeria will soon witness stability in the energy sector, leading to the fast-tracked socio-economic development of the nation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade