New operator to replace Shell in Nigeria's Ogoniland: president

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

ABUJA (AFP) — Nigerian President Umaru Yar'Adua on Wednesday said Anglo-Dutch oil giant Shell would be replaced by another operator by the end of the year in the volatile Niger Delta's oil-rich Ogoniland region.

Yar'Adua told the Nigerian community in South Africa, where he is on an official visit, that "by the end of the year another oil operator will take over Shell Petroleum interests in Ogoniland," according to a statement from his office.

Speaking in Cape Town, Yar'Adua said it was clear "there is a total loss of confidence between Shell and the Ogoni people" and for that reason "another operator acceptable to the Ogonis" will take over from Shell.

"Nobody is gaining from the conflict and stalemate, so this is the best solution," Yar'Adua was quoted as...