BENIN, Feb 28 (NNN-NAN) — The South-South Governors have called for the review of the post-amnesty programme, an implementation timeline and benchmarks set, to ensure the sustainability of the programme.

The call was part of the communiqué the governors issued at the end of their meeting in Benin on Saturday, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The communiqué, read by Gov. Liyel Imoke of Cross River, observed that while the amnesty programme had successfully brought the conflict in the Niger Delta to an end, the slow pace of implementation of the programme had led to frustration.

The governors agreed that it was vital that funds be released and properly managed for the implementation of the programme.

They called for governors’ involvement in the management of the programme to ensure optimal implementation of all aspects of the programme in the region.

The communiqué called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) which promises 10 percent equity in incorporated joint ventures to oil-producing communities.

This they argued, would integrate the communities into the mainstream of national development agenda.

The governors urged the elites to avoid inflammatory and divisive statements and actions that could rock the stability of the nation.

The governors restated their loyalty to the President and commended Acting President Goodluck Jonathan for demonstrating quality leadership at the most difficult and challenging time in the country.

The Governors also welcomed President Umar Yar’Adua back to the country.

They accepted the recommendation of the summit committee, chaired by Prof. Pat Utomi and set up a Secretariat to coordinate the vision and integrated development agenda of the body.

They also accepted to set up a Business Council to coordinate the activities of the private sector for the economic development of the region.

Among the governors in attendance at the meeting were Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) and Liyel Imoke (Cross River). — NNN-NAN

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