The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide has called for an upward review of the 13 per cent derivation formula, describing it as insufficient and unfair to the oil-producing states in the Niger Delta.
The council also demanded the implementation of true federalism to address what it termed systemic anomalies and mistreatment of the region’s people.
In a statement during the 26th anniversary of the Kaiama Declaration, the IYC President, Dr Theophilus Alaye, addressed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the Government House in Port Harcourt. He criticised the existing derivation formula, asserting that it fails to do justice to the region’s contributions to the nation’s economy.
“It is wrong for the people of the Niger Delta, who lay the golden egg, to be given little from their God-given resources through the 13 per cent derivation formula. We call for true federalism in order to address the anomalies and mistreatment of the people of the Niger Delta region,” Alaye stated.
Highlighting the critical role of the Niger Delta in sustaining Nigeria through oil and gas exploration, Alaye expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government for neglecting the needs and aspirations of the region.
“The oil and gas exploration activities in the Niger Delta have been sustaining the country, yet little is given back to the people of the region,” he said.
Alaye urged Governor Fubara to convey the concerns of the Ijaw youths to President Bola Tinubu, emphasising the significant contributions of the Ijaw people to Nigeria’s growth and survival.
“As a people, we understand that our resources have been a contributory factor to the well-being of Nigeria. However, as a result of oil exploration and exploitation in the Niger Delta, our environment has been adversely contaminated and polluted, therefore requiring complete remediation,” he added.
In his response, Governor Fubara acknowledged the significance of the Kaiama Declaration and the Isaac Boro Day celebration, describing them as crucial events for the Ijaw people. He encouraged Ijaw youths to maintain peace and avoid violence, emphasising that sustainable development is only possible in a stable and secure environment.
“I feel very happy that you still appreciate the contributions of the late Isaac Adaka Boro, his sacrifices, and contributions to the Ijaw people,” Fubara said.
The governor also urged Ijaw youths to collaborate with the government to achieve meaningful progress, stressing the importance of unity and constructive engagement for the region’s development.
