Oloibiri Marathon advocate calls for legal recognition, museum resumption, environmental cleanup, corporate responsibility
By: Odie Ramon, Yenagoa.
As the vision bearer of the Nigeria First Oloibiri Oil Well Remembrance 22km Marathon, Chief Nengi James, OON, he was compelled to organize this event to shine a much-needed light on the deplorable condition of the very first oil well and its surrounding host communities.
Speaking to newsmen, he said it’s disheartening to witness their neglect despite their immense historical and ongoing economic contribution to our nation. Coinciding with the UN International Day of Sports for Peace and Progress on April 6th, 2024, pointing that the aim was to draw the urgent attention of the government and relevant bodies to this critical area.
He further said ,” our call includes the urgent need for a law that formally recognizes representatives of these long-neglected host communities and nominates them to serve as board members of the NNPCL and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF)”
“This is a vital step towards ensuring their voices are heard and their interests are represented in decisions that directly impact their lives, resources, and the future development of the petroleum sector.
Furthermore, we call for the immediate resumption of the multi-billion Naira “Oloibiri Museum and Research Project” earmarked for this area. This vital project holds the key to creating significant livelihood opportunities for our young people, giving them a true sense of belonging within the Nigerian project.
We also urge the government and corporate bodies, including the NDDC, NCDMB, NNPCL, to actively support the Oloibiri Remembrance Marathon and help us establish it as an annual event. This will provide a consistent platform to advocate for our community and celebrate our heritage”
He also reiterated the need for Nigerian Government and corporate organizations, particularly Shell, now known as “Renaissance Energy,” urgently partner to decommission the obsolete facilities deposited here seventy years ago for the extraction of fossil fuels and subsequently abandoned
“Finally, the severe environmental degradation of this area demands immediate restoration and remediation as a top priority. We implore the relevant authorities to clean up the devastating mess left behind by Shell and to actively work towards restoring hope and the livelihoods of our people.
Beyond highlighting the area’s plight and advocating for these critical actions, we also wanted to inspire and encourage our athletes to pursue their passion for sports. It was particularly moving to see individuals like 19-year-old Azibataram Princess, a breastfeeding mother, who demonstrated incredible dedication by emerging first in the female category.
Amidst our calls for development, recognition, and environmental justice, we equally celebrated their achievements and the unifying power of sport” he said.
