In the wake of the International Oil Companies’ (IOC) divestment from onshore and shallow water assets in Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has reiterated its facilitative role in the process. Speaking at the 7th Nigerian International Energy Summit 2024 (NIES 2024) in Abuja, NNPC Ltd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, reassured stakeholders that the company’s mandate is to facilitate, not hinder, the divestment process.
According to a statement by Olufemi O. Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Ltd., Kyari emphasised NNPC Ltd’s commitment to ensuring optimal and sustainable production from the divested assets to uphold national energy security. He also announced NNPC Ltd’s willingness to invest in the proposed African Energy Bank to support energy projects across the continent, further underlining its dedication to enhancing energy security.
Addressing infrastructure development, Kyari provided an update on the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben Pipeline project, indicating progress with tunnelling across the River Niger. He expressed confidence that such investments would contribute to closing the energy deficit gap and fostering prosperity in Nigeria.
The event, attended by industry and governmental figures including representatives from OPEC, the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation, and Nigerian ministers, underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing energy challenges. Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), and Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), reiterated the government’s commitment to energy security initiatives.
Amb. Nicholas Agbo Ella, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, and Mohammed Idris Malagi, Minister of Information and National Orientation, also emphasised the government’s support for NNPC Ltd’s facilitative role.
NNPC Ltd’s stance at NIES 2024 reflects its proactive approach to navigating the changing landscape of Nigeria’s energy sector, signalling a concerted effort towards sustainable energy development and security.