US calls for resolution of dispute in the Niger Delta

– The US Embassy to Nigeria says it is monitoring reports of attacks and other incidents in the Niger Delta region

– The embassy stresses on the needto end violence and curb the activities of criminal elements in the Niger Delta

– Calls for the establishment of conditions and mechanisms for profound, positive, and lasting changes in the region.

  Niger Delta militants have in recent times stepped up their attacks on oil and gas facilities in the region.The United States of America has appealed to all parties involved in thedispute in the Niger Delta region to resolve their disputes through peaceful means.

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  According to Vanguard, the US embassy to Nigeria on Tuesday, June 7, in a statement issued by the embassy’s public affairs Unit in Abuja said is it was monitoring reports of attacks and other incidents in the Niger Delta, adding that it shared the concerns of all Nigerians about these attacks.

  “The U.S. remains supportive of efforts, including the promotion of dialogue, to address grievances in the Niger Delta,”the embassy stated.It called on all Nigerians to perseverein efforts to achieve common goals.

  It stressed on the need to end violence and curb the activities of criminal elements.The US mission said the establishment of conditions and mechanisms for profound, positive, and lasting changes in the region would help to bring peace to the region.

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  It stated the need for the provision of economic opportunity and the needed services for residents of the Niger Delta.Meanwhile, as part of the negotiationprocess with militants in the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria, the federal government has ordered immediate withdrawal of military from the zone.

  This was arrived at a meeting summoned on the instruction of President Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government and Niger Delta state.

  Disclosing this at the end of the meeting, Delta State Ifeanyi Okowa who briefed state house correspondents said the meeting identified the need for synergy between the federal and the state governments as a very important step going forward.