Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, has assured the diplomatic community in Nigeria that hostage-taking in the Niger Delta will soon become a thing of the past, especially with on-going peace initiatives by the Federal Government.
Jonathan said this when he received the Russian Federation Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr Igor Melikhov, at the state House yesterday.
He added that government is also making efforts to ensure development of the region, because �we want to ensure that place is like a paradise in future.”
Reiterating government’s commitment to ending the lingering problems in the area, he said the crisis has economically and politically affected not only the region, but the country as a whole
“Nobody is happy about the situation. Even state governors are embarrassed by the situation, this is why I have embarked on series of peace missions to the region in the last few days, and I believe very soon, there will be a resolution,” he said.
While expressing sympathy for Russian expatriates held hostage, he conveyed the Federal Government�s appreciation to the Russian Federation for its friendly disposition towards Nigeria, saying he would strive to ensure release of the Russians in captivity. Speaking earlier, Melikhov commended the Federal Government for the success of the last general elections and congratulate Jonathan on his election as Vice President.
He said the business community in Russia �is very keen to do business and invest in Nigeria, noting, however, that the Russians’ experience is a source for concern.”
Jul42007