Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a move to deepen subnational investment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, Abia State Government has partnered with the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, PETAN, to float a joint investment platform, ABTAN Energy Ltd, and has sought federal support for its growth.
A joint delegation from the state and PETAN, led by PETAN Chairman Engr. Wole Ogunsanya and Abia State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Ogbonna Joel, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen, in Abuja.
The delegation urged the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy to back ABTAN Energy Ltd, which is envisioned as a public-private energy investment vehicle focused on increasing indigenous participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain.
Prof. Ogbonna Joel, representing the Abia State Government, lauded ongoing federal reforms in the energy sector and reiterated Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to fostering investment-ready policies.
“Abia State is ready to serve as a model for how subnationals can collaborate with the private sector to drive energy development. We deeply appreciate the bold reforms coordinated by your office,” Prof. Joel stated.
In her response, Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen, welcomed the partnership and commended the collaborative spirit behind ABTAN Energy.
“This model aligns perfectly with the fiscal incentives and reforms championed by the Tinubu administration. I encourage you to take full advantage of our evolving regulatory environment and be part of shaping Nigeria’s energy future,” she said.
She emphasized the importance of local content and subnational investment as key pillars for national energy security and economic resilience.
Other members of the ABTAN delegation included PETAN Conference Chairman Mr. Ibe Chubby Ibe, PETAN Publicity Secretary Dr. Innocent Akuvue, and PETAN Executive Secretary Engr. Kevin Nwanze.
ABTAN Energy Ltd is expected to drive infrastructure investment, modular refining, local technology deployment, and upstream asset development, marking a significant milestone in subnational energy participation.
