The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has lauded the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the entire military, for their decisive actions against oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and pipeline vandalisation in the Niger Delta region.
It said the approach adopted by the military in the fight against oil theft and pipeline vandalisation in the region, has provided a much-needed boost of confidence for the communities of the Niger Delta, who have long witnessed and endured the economic and environmental devastation caused by the criminal activities.
MOSIEND, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, by its President, Dr. Kennedy West, on Thursday, said General Musa’s public declaration signals a resolve to end the looting of the nation’s resources.
The statement read in part: “This firm approach aligns with the government’s objective of reaching the country’s oil production target of 2.1 million barrels per day, a crucial goal for Nigeria’s economic stability.
“MOSIEND views this as a decisive step towards restoring security and economic strength in the region, an area rich in resources but historically plagued by exploitation and environmental degradation.
“The illegal siphoning and vandalization of oil infrastructure have severely affected the livelihoods of people in the Niger Delta, resulting in an economic burden not only for the local communities but for the country at large.
“Years of unchecked oil theft have led to significant financial losses, deterred potential investors, and caused devastating environmental harm. MOSIEND’s endorsement of the CDS’s actions is rooted in its mission to ensure peace, economic justice, and environmental restoration in the Niger Delta.
“The organization is ready to partner with the authorities to bring long-term solutions that benefit both the local communities and the national economy.
“MOSIEND’s recognition of the task force’s efforts reflects a broader optimism that the Niger Delta’s resources can be protected and managed more sustainably.
“A strengthened security presence around oil installations promises not only to safeguard these assets but also to boost investor confidence. This, in turn, could generate job opportunities and foster social stability in the region.
“MOSIEND believes that the visible impact of these improvements underscores the importance of governmental accountability and transparency in handling resources critical to the national economy.”