Call for Relocating NNPCL to Niger Delta
A prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Yekini Nabena, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to contemplate relocating the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to the Niger Delta region.
This call comes in response to the recent announcement by the Federal Government regarding the relocation of specific departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja to Lagos.
Tinubu's Alleged Disbelief in 'One Nigeria'
Nabena, in his criticism of Tinubu's stance, accused the former Governor of Lagos State of not subscribing to the idea of 'One Nigeria.
' Citing an interview from 1997, Nabena asserted that Tinubu's historical perspective on the concept of national unity raises concerns about the decision-making process.
Proposal for Strategic Relocations
To substantiate the call for agency relocations, Nabena proposed that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development be moved to Benue State, where agricultural productivity is significant.
He emphasized the necessity for the Presidency to provide transparent justifications for such relocations, rather than relying on vague explanations.
Efficiency and Symbolism of Federal Agencies
Highlighting the symbolic importance of federal agencies in fostering national unity, Nabena urged a thorough examination of the reasons behind relocating these institutions.
He suggested that if efficiency is the primary concern, agencies such as NNPCL, NIMASA, and NPA would operate more effectively in Bayelsa, Rivers, or Delta states.
Strategic Relocations for Economic Impact
Continuing his proposal, Nabena recommended the relocation of the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel to Kogi State, citing the presence of Ajaokuta Steel for increased efficiency.
Additionally, he suggested that the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment be moved to Kano or Anambra states, where trade is prominent.
National Assembly's Role and Accountability
Expressing concern over the National Assembly's silence on ongoing events, Nabena questioned the leadership of the 10th Assembly regarding the source of Christmas funds distributed to the public.
He criticized the apparent lack of response to issues such as the Betta Edu scandal, emphasizing the need for accountability in the face of alleged mismanagement of public funds.
