The Nigerian army has hailed a four-month ceasefire between the government and militants in the oil-rich Niger Delta, saying the deal will re-establish stability in the southern region.

“So, to that extent, the JTF [Joint Military Task Force] has achieved tremendous results in terms of ensuring that there is a return to normalcy in terms of security. So things are back to normal and people are going about their business without any fear of insecurity,” VOA quoted the Nigerian military spokesman in the Niger Delta as saying on Saturday.

In June, the Nigerian government offered amnesty to thousands of militants in the Niger Delta.

Afterwards, thousands gave up their weapons and accepted peace in the region.

Local communities in the Niger Delta have long complained about their poverty despite five decades of oil extraction.

The deal is meant to end the years of fighting and insecurity that have plagued Nigeria's oil industry.

JR/HGL