Energy Security: Lokpobiri Strengthens Collaboration With Traditional Rulers In Bayelsa
In a move to address the persistent challenges of pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft in the oil-producing communities, the Minister for State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has embarked on a series of insightful and collaborative courtesy visits to traditional rulers in Bayelsa State.
Recall that the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Orji Ogbonya Orji last year disclosed that Nigeria lost about $46 billion (N16.25 trillion) to crude oil theft in 11 years.
NEITI also disclosed in its 2021 report that out of the total metered crude oil production of 634.60 million barrels, the nation lost 68.47 million barrels to production adjustment, measurement error, theft, and sabotage.
The report pointed out that a total of 29 companies suffered crude oil losses from theft and sabotage amounting to 37.57 million barrels.
It said, the decline in crude oil losses due to theft and sabotage from 39.08million barrels in 2020 to 37.57million barrels in 2021 was generally due to the decline in crude oil production during this period.
Thus, the visit to the traditional rulers aligns with the Minister’s unwavering commitment to foster cooperation with key stakeholders in the oil industry, aimed at addressing security uncertainties in the oil-bearing communities across the region.
The Special Adviser on Media and Communication to the Minister, Nneamaka Okafor who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, said, one of these meetings took place with the Pere of Ekpetiama clan and Chairman of the Traditional Rulers’ Council of Bayelsa State, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo.
In this engaging encounter, the Minister stressed the imperative of collective efforts in curbing pipeline vandalization and oil theft. He called on His Royal Majesty to utilize his esteemed position to rally other Traditional Rulers in the State for a unified front in addressing these challenges.
Recognizing the crucial role traditional leaders play in the socio-economic fabric of the region, the Minister emphasized the need for a joint commitment to securing the oil infrastructure.
Continuing the dialogue, the Minister extended his courtesy visit to the King of Nembe Kingdom and former Minister of Petroleum, HRM Edmund Daukoru. The discussions during this meeting were focused on the importance of
collaborative action in ensuring the security of pipelines and combating illicit activities in the oil sector. The Minister expressed deep appreciation for the support and valuable insights provided by HRM Edmund Daukoru, acknowledging his wealth of experience in the petroleum industry as an asset to the ongoing efforts in the region.
In another significant engagement, the Minister met with the Pere of Kumbowei Kingdom, HRM Boloye Sufadoh Embareba.
The discussions with HRM Boloye Sufadoh Embareba revolved around the critical need for collaboration between the government and traditional rulers to effectively address security challenges and enhance crude production.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a secure and prosperous oil sector, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between a thriving oil industry and national prosperity.
These meticulous visits underline the Minister’s dedication to leaving no stone unturned in achieving the Federal Government’s objective of increasing crude production for the prosperity of the nation.
By actively engaging with traditional rulers, the Minister aims to build a strong and enduring alliance with local leaders, fostering a secure environment that is conducive to sustainable growth in the oil industry.
