The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, Thursday urged the Federal Government to engage in dialogue with Niger-Delta militants rather than resorting to military force.
Arkwright, who spoke in an interview with reporters at the Ake Palace in Abeokuta, Ogun State, also restated the commitment of the British government towards repatriating looted funds to Nigeria.
The diplomat was in the state on an official visit to Governor Ibikunle Amosun, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo.
Speaking on the recent upsurge in militant attacks resulting in destruction of oil pipelines in the Niger Delta region, the UK envoy said a comprehensive approach was needed by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to address agitation in the area.
Arkwright explained that the comprehensive approach would include dialogue with restive youths and clean-up of communities damaged by oil exploration.
He noted that with adequate engagement of stakeholders, various investments and business interests in the affected areas would be well secured.
