… Lokpobiri engages IOCs to enhance drilling
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — President Bola Tinubu anticipates an enhanced crude oil and gas production in the country, since the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, has catalysed a transformative shift in the sector, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has said.
Lokpobiri also disclosed that the Federal Government remains ready to fast-track the processes for continued drilling by international oil companies operating in the country.
The Minister, who was speaking when he met with the Managing Director of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Mr Matthieu Bouyer, said he was currently engaging with oil and gas industry players to push toward an enhanced crude oil production capacity in the country.
He assured that the government will continue to partner with IOCs for increased oil production and remains committed to a thriving petroleum sector that will be beneficial to all stakeholders.
He said: “In line with our objective of ramping up crude production, I have engaged with key industry players and a critical point emerged — the collaborative push towards enhanced crude production and I have actively engaged stakeholders to bolster our efforts.
“During these discussions, I conveyed President Tinubu’s anticipation for dialogues centred on productivity enhancement especially as the Petroleum Industry Act has catalyzed a transformative shift in our sector, aligning interests across the board.
“A confidential exchange with TotalEnergies solidified their commitment to drill, and I assured of our readiness to fast-track all processes.
“Our commitment is resolute, aiming for swift implementation and aligning efforts with national goals. As we traverse this collaborative journey, the shared vision is clear – a thriving oil sector benefiting all stakeholders.
“Looking ahead into 2024, our focus extends to forging partnerships with various International Oil Companies, aligning with our vision for increased crude production.”
