Senate president :Bukola Saraki says senator will support upward review of amnesty fund

Senate President Bukola Saraki yesterday said that the Upper Chamber will support any proposal from the executive to increase the fund slated for the amnesty programme in the 2016 Appropriation Act.

Saraki, who spoke to reporters at the Presidential Villa after the Change of Guards ceremony to mark the nation's 56th Independence Anniversary, said any plan by the executive to calm the frayed nerves in the Niger Delta and increase oil production will enjoy the support of the National Assembly.

Saraki, in a statement by his media office, said: "Any positive move to restore peace in the restive Niger Delta region as well as increase the nation's ability to earn more money at this point will enjoy the support of the Senate.

"We need to earn more foreign exchange and inject more money into the system through the funding of development projects to reflate our economy and put more people to work."

The Senate had in its recommendations also asked the President Buhari to appoint a Special Adviser that would lead the government engagement team in dialogue with the aggrieved Niger Delta Militants to ensure the protection of Nigeria's oil and gas assets.

In the 20-point solution the Senate tasked the federal government to ensure that all cases of unwholesome practices in the export of crude oil are vigorously pursued and dealt with decisively.

It further mandates the federal government to ensure that all cases involving unaccounted oil exports are pursued with vigour and culprits brought to book.