Mkpoikana Udoma
15 June 2017, Sweetcrude, Port Harcourt – Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has assured that his administration will continue to provide a conducive environment for multinational companies operating in the state particularly, Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, and her investments.
The governor said that there is no need for the SPDC to relocate out of Rivers State, as the action will negatively affect the economy of the state and Nigeria.
Speaking when he granted audience to the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on SPDC Relocation on Monday, Governor Wike assured that his administration is doing its best to avert security crisis that will affect investors,
The Rivers State Governor pledged to support the ad-hoc committee carry out its duty.
“If anything happens here, it will have negative social implications.
“The relocation will not just be a loss for Rivers State, it will be a loss for Nigeria. The negative impact it will have on the Niger Delta and Nigeria will outweigh whatever challenges that Shell is facing “.
The governor said that his administration is always willing to take measures to ensure that businesses thrive in the state.
He told the House of Representatives that investments in the security framework of Rivers State led to the state not witnessing the sabotage of major national economic assets.
“I thank the Speaker of the House of Representatives and members of the Ad hoc Committee on SPDC Relocation for taking measures to stop the relocation of SPDC “, Governor Wike said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on SPDC Relocation, Mr. Ibrahim Isiaka, said that it is necessary to stop the relocation of SPDC because of the effect it will have on the Niger Delta economy.
Isiaka who stated that the committee was set up based on the motion by the Member representing Obio/Akpor Constituency, Mr. Kinsley Chinda explained that they have met with all stakeholders in the matter to stop Shell from moving out of Rivers State.
He explained that the decision of Shell to relocate from the state will not only affect the economy but will also create unemployment for youths.
The Federal lawmaker also said it is working with all stakeholders to avert plans by the company to relocate from Rivers State.