Goodluck Jonathan's Life-Risking Peace Efforts in Niger Delta

Former President Goodluck Jonathan disclosed that he risked his life to ensure peace in the Niger Delta region by visiting militant camps without armed security. This revelation occurred during his address as chairman at the Mangrove Conversation organized in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board in Yenagoa.

Jonathan recounted his experiences negotiating with militants, emphasizing that he insisted on visiting the camps unarmed to build trust and facilitate dialogue. He noted that this approach contributed to the peace process and the implementation of the Niger Delta Amnesty Program.

Jonathan stressed that the development of the Niger Delta remains a national priority and highlighted the need to address environmental degradation and decades of neglect in the region. He recalled that during negotiations, he faced a line of young people armed with rifles but managed to engage in discussions that ultimately led to the amnesty grant for militants.