EVEN if it portrays it as weak, the Federal Government has expressed its resolve to show restraint in its dealing with the problems of the Niger Delta region.
This position of the government was accentuated yesterday by President Olusegun Obasanjo while playing host to the Executive Director of Exploration and Production, Shell International, Mr. Malcolm Brinded at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to the President, the position was taken because of his firm commitment to do everything possible to save lives in all circumstances.
Referring to the hostages being held in the Niger Delta, he said: “We have to show restraint, even if this portrays government as weak. If we choose to use force, lives will definitely be lost. I will do everything to save lives in all circumstances.”
Henceforth, President Obasanjo declared, all communities where development projects are sited will be the first beneficiaries of such projects.
“We must ensure that an all-encompassing plan is put in place involving the states, local governments and relevant companies for a socio-economic transformation of all areas where mineral resources are mined. The Federal Government expects states and local governments to provide secondary schools, medical centres as well as roads while companies also put in their quota,” the president added.
Earlier, Brinded told President Obasanjo that Shell appreciates the Federal Government’s efforts to secure the release of the remaining three hostages, adding: “It is normal for us to be concerned about our staff, and we are encouraged by your efforts to free them.”
He also briefed the President on the company’s current operations and future plans Nigeria.