Niger Delta Development Ministry Seeks Collaborative Solutions with International Oil Companies

Niger Delta Development Ministry Seeks Collaborative Solutions with International Oil Companies

The Honorable Minister of the Niger Delta Development Ministry, Engr. Abubakar Momoh FNSE, delivered a keynote address at a collaborative meeting with International Oil Companies (IOCs) and development partners held at Envoy Hotel, Abuja, on January 30th, 2024.

The address highlighted key issues and sought support for the development of the Niger Delta Region.

In his address, Minister Abubakar Momoh emphasized the importance of collaboration and synergy between critical stakeholders, especially IOCs and development partners, in achieving the region’s development goals. The meeting aimed to address, brainstorm, and share the visions of the present administration with a focus on promoting greater synergy for enhanced results in the overall development of the Niger Delta Region.

The Minister outlined the Ministry’s commitment to fast-tracking development through extra-budgetary provisions, despite financial shortfalls. He stressed the need for collaboration with IOCs to overcome these challenges and effectively discharge the Ministry’s mandate.

Several target areas for collaboration were identified, including:

Peace and Security in the Region:

A call for sustained peace and security to create a conducive atmosphere for government and private economic activities.

Training and Empowerment of Youth and Women:

Emphasizing empowerment as a vital aspect of collaborative engagement, with a focus on the youth and women who constitute a significant portion of the region’s population.

Host Community Trust Fund:

Collaboration with IOCs to bring this Fund to fruition, in line with a presidential directive and stipulations in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Gas Flaring:

Seeking collaboration to reduce gas flaring and address environmental and health issues, aligning with the global commitment to end flaring by 2030.

Strategic Implementation Work Plan (SIWP):

Collaboration on a platform capturing projects and programs to ensure accountability and prevent duplication of developmental efforts in the region.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Urging IOCs to increase and expedite the completion of projects under their CSR scheme to address infrastructural gaps in the region.

Oil Theft and Bunkering Menace:

Seeking technical support from IOCs to combat oil theft, with a call for proactive measures and collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

Minister Abubakar Momoh concluded by soliciting support and collaboration from IOCs, industry players, and major stakeholders. He expressed optimism about a productive interaction and the commitment of resources, expertise, and a shared vision to bring collective goals to fruition.

For additional details, kindly reach out to:

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister on Media