Jonathan Says Petroleum Subsidy Removal, An Economic Necessity

SAN FRANCISCO, January 29, (THEWILL) - President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has said the removal of subsidy on petroleum is an economic necessity, though the duration of the recent protest against the policy was challenging.

President Jonathan was speaking to Mr. Ban Ki Moon, United Nations’ Secretary General, on the sidelines of the 18th African Union Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Governments in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

“The duration of the protest was challenging, but I am happy that it ended well”, he said.

President Jonathan also told the UN Scribe that Government would take up the matter of compensation for oil spills with Shell very soon, with a view to reaching an amicable solution to the problem.

He thanked the UN for the constant support given to Nigeria.

Earlier, Mr. Ban Ki Moon had said that subsidy removal was the necessary for economic growth, though it was difficult for citizens. He commiserated with President Jonathan over the terrorist attacks in Nigeria, and offered to support any efforts to halt the menace.

The UN Secretary General also said African nations must cooperate to help resolve the problems in the Sudan.