We will return Nigeria to good old days —Buhari

IN spite of the current economic hardship and criticism of his administration, President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday, said his administration will leave a legacy for the nation, as he pledged to restore the country to the “good old days of accountability.”

Speaking at a meeting with the Director, Global Upstream of Shell Oil Company, at the State House, Abuja, Buhari said he would leave a legacy of improved infrastructure, particularly in the power sector, and also ensure better security in the Niger Delta.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Garba Shehu, in a statement in Abuja, quoted Buhari as saying that “it is only by doing this that investors’ morale and confidence will return and the economy will be positioned on the path of growth.”

President Buhari, who commended Shell for its faith in the economy and staying power, gave assurances on some issues of concern raised by the company.

On the protracted issue of cash calls, the president assured that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) would soon consider a proposal for the easing of unpaid arrears owed by the government.

He said the security of oil infrastructure would continue to be prioritised side-by-side with dialogue with the stakeholder-communities in the Niger Delta.

He, however, urged oil companies to take more responsibility in the protection of oil installations, to complement the efforts of Nigerian Navy in the region.

In his remarks, the Shell Director, Mr Andrew Brown, informed the president of the resumption of oil exportation through the Forcados terminal, following its restoration.

He called for continued protection by the Nigerian Navy in view of repeated threats of attack by militants.

Brown commended the anti-corruption posture of the Buhari-led administration as well as the efforts to streamline and stabilise the economy for long term projects, saying all the efforts would go a long way to reinforce Shell investment plans in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has advised the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to declare “emergency” on the economy.

National publicity secretary of the party, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, in a statement in Abuja, on Tuesday, also advised the government to invite competent hands to manage and revive the economy.

He, however, said the PDP had been vindicated of its positions, following the acceptance of responsibility regarding the economic misfortune caused by the APC.