By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has described former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, as a reference point for integrity and accountability in public service, saying his record remains relevant years after he left office.

In a statement issued to mark Kachikwu’s 69th birthday, the group said the former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) ranks among the most accomplished public servants to have emerged from the Niger Delta.

The statement was signed by MOSIEND President, Comrade Kennedy Tonjo West, who spoke on behalf of the organisation.

MOSIEND said Kachikwu’s work across law, academia and oil and gas administration continues to offer practical lessons for reform in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

“At 69, Dr Kachikwu remains one of the most credible voices from the Niger Delta. His reputation is intact, his contributions are recognised, and his name continues to inspire confidence,” West said.

The group recalled that during Kachikwu’s tenure as NNPC GMD, he introduced reforms aimed at improving transparency, restoring investor confidence and repositioning the corporation for global competitiveness. It said the measures helped bring stability to a sector long troubled by institutional distrust.

MOSIEND also noted that Kachikwu played a key role in calming tensions in the Niger Delta at a time of heightened insecurity, when militant activities and attacks on oil facilities posed serious risks to national output.

According to the statement, his engagement with youth groups, traditional rulers and other stakeholders helped open channels for dialogue and reduce tensions across the region.

West added that some of Kachikwu’s initiatives later shaped policy and legislative developments in the petroleum sector.

The group described Kachikwu, a lawyer, Harvard academic and visiting professor, as one of the notable ministers from the Niger Delta, saying his service record merits recognition and continued relevance in national affairs.

MOSIEND wished him good health and strength as he continues to contribute to national discourse.