HOSCON Calls for Massive Roads Rehabilitation in Niger Delta, Stronger Critical Assets Protection

Ogheneruona Tejiri, Jesse, Dalta

Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON) has called on the Federal Government to to as matter of urgent public importance embark on massive roads rehabilitation in the Niger Delta region.

This call was made by HRM Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, Udurhie 1, Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, Chairman, HOSCON Traditional Rulers and Elders Advisory Council while briefing journalists on the State of the nation in his Palace at Jesse Town, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, he said that almost all the major roads that connect states in the region are all in dilapidated situations and impassible.

HRM Udurhie 1 who was flanked by HRM Ekpollo 11, Ovie of Okpeki Solo, HRM Polokowei Johnbull, Pere of Ogbolubiri Mein, HRM Paul Ifeneziuche, Igwete of Amai Kingdom and Dr. Michael Emuh, National Chairman of HOSCON also called for strengthened protection of oil facilities and critical national assets, describing security in the Niger Delta as central to Nigeria’s economic survival.

While saying that all Federal Government roads in the region are in very poor condition, HRM Whiskey warned that collapsing infrastructures poses both security and economic risks.

HOSCON specifically highlighted the deteriorating Benin City–Sapele–Warri–Ughelli–Port Harcourt–Oron–Uyo–Calabar corridor, describing it as a major commercial and security route that has been neglected for too long.

According to HOSCON Traditional Rulers and Elders Advisory Council, bad roads not only hinder economic activities but also expose commuters to fall prey criminals, delays emergency responses and worsen living conditions across the region.

They called on the Federal Government to without delays commence speedy rehabilitation of all bad roads in the region to enable the people move from point to point.

HRM Whiskey said safeguarding oil and gas infrastructure remains the backbone of national stability, noting that crude oil revenues funds significant portion of Nigeria’s budget.

He said host communities have continued to play a stabilising role in ensuring the free flow of crude oil and gas, often at great cost to their environment and livelihoods, adding that their sacrifices must be matched with deliberate government action of development.

He added, “true protection of national assets goes beyond deployment of force; it requires the full involvement of the people who live with these assets daily, exclusion of host communities only weakens security efforts.”

HOSCON expressed strong confidence in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited(TSSNL), crediting the firm with improving the protection of oil facilities, reducing crude oil theft and contributing to increased national output in recent times.

He spoke further, “Tantita Security has shown professionalism and courage in protecting sensitive national installations where others failed. The outfit’s activities have also led to cleaner waterways, the return of aquatic life and gradual environmental recovery in parts of the Niger Delta.”

They called on the Federal Government to expand the scope of Tantita’s operations, describing the move as a strategic national decision that would further secure oil assets, create jobs and strengthen environmental protection.

On broader national security, HOSCON argued that Nigeria must adopt a more inclusive approach by formally recognising the role of traditional rulers in security architecture.

The group has this to say, “traditional rulers remain the closest to the grassroots and understand local dynamics better than anyone. Constitutional roles for monarchs would enhance intelligence gathering and early conflict resolution across the 774 local government areas.

In the maritime sector, HOSCON called for full utilisation of seaports in Sapele, Warri, Burutu, Koko, Onne and the Ibom Deep Seaport, saying efficient port operations would ease pressure on roads and create massive employment opportunities.

HOSCON expressed concern over what it described as unnecessary attacks and distractions surrounding the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

The group praised the current Coordinator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, for what it called bold reforms and heavy investment in education, saying no previous coordinator had taken such decisive steps.

“All sponsored protests and unfounded allegations are being driven by those who want the old negative order to continue. Undermining the programme could reverse gains in peace and youth development.

HOSCON concluded by calling on the Federal Government to match words with action through visible, people-focused projects in security, roads and economic inclusion, while wishing Nigerians and security agencies a safer and more prosperous 2026.