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Favour Ishember, Abuja
The Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D, has praised President Tinubu for demonstrating intentional leadership by ensuring the full operationalization of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which grants oil-producing host communities 3% of the operational expenses of oil companies through the Host Community Development Trust Fund.
In particular, Sen.Lokpobiri called on the people of the Niger Delta region to continue supporting the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing the president’s commitment to the region’s development through key reforms and initiatives under the Renewed Hope agenda.
The Minister, gave this charge while delivering his opening remarks as Chairman of the occasion at the 60th birthday and book launch of His Royal Majesty, King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, and the Chairman of Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council,
In the words of the Minister “This administration is not just making promises, it is delivering. The Host Community Trust Fund is a clear demonstration that President Tinubu is deeply committed to the development of the Niger Delta. Our people must not take this opportunity for granted”.
He further urged the people of the region to reciprocate this commitment by ensuring the safety of oil installations and infrastructure in their communities
He stressed that any act of sabotage, such as pipeline vandalism or internal disputes over fund management, would ultimately be self-defeating.
“When you blow up the pipelines, you’re not just sabotaging the Federal Government; you are also blowing up your own 3% share of revenue and destroying your environment. That is not activism, it’s economic suicide,” Lokpobiri warned.
Beyond the PIA, the Minister highlighted other developmental strides being championed by the Tinubu administration in the region, which includes the establishment of the Federal University of Environmental Science, accelerated implementation of abandoned projects, among others.
He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the President’s clear vision to uplift the Niger Delta and integrate it fully into the national development plan.
Lokpobiri emphasized the need for unity and collective responsibility in the region, urging stakeholders to take the message back to the grassroots and ensure that the people understand their role in protecting national assets and supporting the government’s developmental vision.
The event, attended by prominent traditional rulers, policymakers, and community leaders, served as a platform for reinforcing the need for unity and collective responsibility.
Sen. Lokpobiria lso commended members of the NDA Course 38, who were in attendance to celebrate with the King, their mate.
On his part, Governor Douye Diri thanked President Tinubu for his efforts in developing the Niger Delta region and commended Sen. Lokpobiri for ensuring that the president’s developmental drives reach the region.
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Source: Championnews.com.ng | Read the Full Story…
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