Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Calls on Niger Delta Region to Support Tinubu Administration

Strategic Insights -

The Niger Delta region has been called upon by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Senator Lokpobiri made this appeal during the 60th birthday and book launch of King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom. The minister emphasized that President Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to the region's development through key reforms and tangible initiatives, including the operationalization of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The PIA grants oil-producing host communities 3% of the operational expenses of oil companies through the Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF).

Key Takeaways:

  • Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has called on the people of the Niger Delta region to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu, citing his commitment to the region's development through key reforms and initiatives.
  • President Tinubu has demonstrated intentional leadership by ensuring the full operationalisation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which grants oil-producing host communities 3% of the operational expenses of oil companies through the Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF).
  • Lokpobiri has urged the people of the region to reciprocate this commitment by ensuring the safety of oil installations and infrastructure in their communities, emphasizing that acts of sabotage would be self-defeating.
  • The minister highlighted other developmental strides being championed by the Tinubu administration in the region, including the establishment of the Federal University of Environmental Science and the accelerated implementation of abandoned projects.
  • Lokpobiri emphasized that peace, security, and accountability are non-negotiable pillars for sustaining growth in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria.
  • The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources has encouraged stakeholders to "take this message back to the grassroots and ensure that our people understand their role in protecting national assets, safeguarding our environment, and supporting the government's developmental vision."

Statistics:

  • 3% of the operational expenses of oil companies will be granted to oil-producing host communities through the Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF) as per the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
  • The Federal University of Environmental Science has been established as part of the Tinubu administration's development initiatives in the Niger Delta region.
  • Multiple developmental projects have been accelerated in the Niger Delta region under the Tinubu administration, including abandoned projects.

Sources:

  • A statement by Nneamaka Okafor, spokesperson for Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
  • Remarks by Senator Douye Diri, the Bayelsa State Governor.