From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Honorable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D., has reiterated the importance of sustained investment in capacity building as a critical foundation for growth in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week #NOGEnergyWeek, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Center (BATICC), Abuja, the Minister emphasized that the expectations of Nigerians are high, and the sector must rise to meet them.
“As a nation whose economy is deeply reliant on the performance of the energy sector, we must continue to prioritize capacity development. Sustaining investment in this area is non-negotiable if we must continue to grow,” the Minister stated.
Senator Lokpobiri noted the positive trajectory the sector is currently experiencing, particularly following the successful conclusion of various divestment deals. He explained that these deals have catalyzed a fresh wave of investment, enabling indigenous companies to take the lead in asset development and operations.
“Our local content framework is clearly delivering on its mandate,” he said. “The success of indigenous firms driving recent divestments is a clear indication to the progress we have made in building local capacity.”
While addressing the gathering of industry stakeholders and global players, the Minister urged all operators to ensure that every asset under their control is fully active and productive, in alignment with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In the Ministerial Panel Session, Senator Lokpobiri focused on the urgent need for a sustainable energy mix that guarantees energy security. “We must drive strategic investments and divestments in a manner that enables us to meet both domestic demands and our international obligations,” he said.
During the exhibition tour, the Honorable Minister also advocated for increased deployment of indigenous technology solutions. “It is imperative that we continue to encourage homegrown innovations to complement the commendable efforts already being made by operators in the field,” he stated.
The week-long event concluded with the prestigious Closing Gala Dinner and Annual NOG Energy Awards Ceremony, where Senator Lokpobiri emphasized the importance of recognizing performance as a catalyst for industry-wide excellence.
“As we call on operators to ramp up production, it is only fitting that we recognize and reward excellence. This will serve as motivation for all stakeholders to deliver even greater value to our nation,” he concluded.
