The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr Gift Worlu, has reaffirmed his administrationβs firm commitment to environmental protection, youth empowerment, and the fight against illegal refining and pipeline vandalism.
He made this declaration while attending the Renaissance Africa Energy Companyβs Campaign on the Prevention of Pipeline Vandalism and Illegal Refining Activities, held at the Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt.
Delivering his keynote address, Dr Gift Worlu described the two-day campaign as βa vital engagement that strikes at the heart of our collective future.β
βIt is with immense gratitude and great pride that I stand before you to warmly welcome you all to this vital engagement organised by Renaissance Africa Energy Company. I am deeply honoured to address an issue that concerns the very soul of our communities β the prevention of pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering, artisanal refining, and asset vandalism,β he stated.
According to the Obio/Akpor Chairman, the menace of pipeline vandalism and illegal refining is not merely an economic concern but a direct assault on human life and the environment.
βPipeline vandalism and illegal refining are not just acts of sabotage; they are assaults on our collective cultural inheritance. The soot that pollutes our air knows no boundary β it affects the rich, the poor, the young, and the old alike. The time for decisive and unified action is now,β he warned.
Dr Gift Worlu lamented the environmental destruction caused by these illegal activities, noting that they have polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands, and endangered public health. He emphasised that the initiative by Renaissance Africa Energy Company serves as a clarion call for collective action among government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders.
Highlighting the efforts of his administration, the Obio/Akpor Chairman disclosed that the Local Government Council has been working closely with the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Military, and community vigilante groups to monitor and report illegal refining operations.
He further revealed that the Council has intensified youth empowerment and skill acquisition programmes to create legitimate opportunities for young people, steering them away from destructive and illegal ventures.
In outlining a framework for sustainable change, Hon. Dr Gift Worlu emphasised four key areas of action:
1. Public Engagement and Sensitisation: Intensifying awareness to educate youths and communities about the dangers of vandalism and pollution.
2. Youth Development and Economic Empowerment: Expanding vocational and entrepreneurial opportunities to reduce unemployment.
3. Strengthening Security and Partnership: Deepening collaboration among local governments, communities, and security agencies.
4. Environmental Restoration and Accountability: Ensuring polluted areas are cleaned up and offenders are brought to justice.
βThese are not abstract problems β they affect real lives, real people, and our communities every single day,β he noted. βAs leaders, we cannot stand idly by while our land bleeds and our people suffer.β
Dr Gift Worlu called for collective ownership of environmental preservation, urging all residents of Obio/Akpor and Rivers State to prioritise long-term prosperity over short-term illegal gains.
βThis campaign is a worthy movement. It is a call to every citizen of Obio/Akpor and indeed Rivers State to take ownership of our environment and our future. Let us reject the short-term gains of illegal activities for the long-term prosperity of our society,β he declared.
The Council Chairman also commended Renaissance Africa Energy Company for organising the campaign and appreciated security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders for their unrelenting dedication to the cause.
βTogether, we can build a Rivers State where our environment is preserved, our economy thrives, and our people live in peace and prosperity. Let us say no to pipeline vandalism, no to illegal bunkering, and yes to a sustainable future for all,β Hon. Dr Worlu concluded.
Signed:
Obio/Akpor Press Unit
October 29, 2025
