Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has affirmed the federal government’s commitment to developing oil-producing communities, pledging to address their concerns and prioritize their welfare.

During a visit to Ogulagha and Gbaramatu Kingdoms in Delta State, Lokpobiri engaged with traditional rulers, local leaders and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in boosting crude production and ensuring a conducive environment for investors.

The Minister on his official X handle said his visit was imperative to strengthen partnerships with local communities, foster cooperation, and promote the federal government’s initiatives in the oil sector.

He asserted that his commitment to the welfare of oil-producing communities aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for the development of the oil industry and the nation as a whole.

He said, “True to my promise as a ‘Creek Boy,’ I visited the Ogulagha and Gbaramatu Kingdoms in Delta State. My interactions with the local communities focused on forging partnerships to boost crude production, ensuring that local stakeholders are integral to our strategic initiatives.

“The warm reception and unwavering patriotism of the good people of Ogulagha deeply moved me. Their steadfast support for the Federal Government’s efforts in securing our vital oil facilities is commendable, and I sought their continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting his dedication to the development of oil-producing communities and the nation at large.

‘As one of their own, I am profoundly dedicated to pursuing a resolution to their concerns, with an assurance to corroborate with relevant Government agencies for immediate attention to their needs and welfare, which are of paramount importance.

“My engagement with the leaders and people of these oil-rich communities reflects our commitment to transforming the oil sector through direct collaboration. We will continue to prioritize creating favorable operational conditions for investors, ensuring sustained growth and development within our petroleum industry.

“Gbaramatu, like Ogulagha Kingdom, is endowed with significant oil resources and deserves to benefit from these natural gifts. In my interactions with the community, I stressed the importance of their support to the Federal Government’s vision for a revitalized oil industry, which is not without addressing major concerns.

“Therefore, I urged the good people of Gbaramatu to maintain their support for the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives to attract investments back into the oil sector, while assuring them that their welfare remains a top priority, and their contributions to the industry will always be valued.”