The spokesman for Ijaw Youth Council, Bedford Benjamin Berefa has advocated for the establishment of Modular Refineries to encourage industrialization in the Niger Delta region.
Berefa also urges the federal government to promote industrialization in the Niger Delta.
Speaking in Uyo Akwa Ibom state capital on Sunday, Berefa emphasized the urgent need for the federal government and international oil companies (IOCs) to collaborate in order to bring about much-needed development to the area.
Berefa explained that there are several untapped resources in the region that could not only contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economy but also create employment opportunities for youths.
“Apart from oil, there are other resources in the Niger Delta region that have not been harnessed. We want the federal government to partner with International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the area to provide an enabling environment for industrialization.
“This is the only way our youths can prosper. The modular refineries should be built in the region so that youths can be engaged in operations of the refineries.”
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He stated that the establishment of modular refineries would not only reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined products but also provide a boost to the local communities by generating jobs and increasing revenue streams.
Berefa’s advocacy for industrialization aligns with the long-standing concerns of many residents in the Niger Delta, who have been grappling with environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges due to oil exploration activities.
He called on IOCs to engage in responsible practices and invest in sustainable projects that would uplift the lives of the people living in the region.
The Ijaw Youth Council spokesman also urged the federal government to provide the necessary support and incentives to encourage private sector participation in the development of modular refineries and other industries in the Niger Delta.
He suggested a comprehensive approach involving collaboration between all stakeholders to achieve long-term growth and prosperity in the region.
He therefore appealed to the federal government to formulate an action plan that will encourage modular refineries and industrialization to serve as a catalyst for discussions and transform the region into a hub of economic activity and address pressing issues faced by the local communities in the region.
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