The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri9 has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, due process, and investor confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Lokpobiri stated this during the sail-away and flag-off ceremony of the EMEM Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessel, developed by Oriental Energy Resources Limited for the Okwok Field Development offshore Nigeria.
The Minister described the launch of the EMEM FPSO as a “landmark milestone” in Nigeria’s efforts to sustainably boost crude oil production and strengthen the nation’s energy infrastructure.
“This event is not just the launch of a vessel; it is a statement of confidence in Nigeria’s petroleum industry and a demonstration of the kind of bold, forward-looking investments we need to achieve our national goals,” Lokpobiri said.
“With the commissioning of the EMEM FPSO, we are not just increasing barrels; we are also creating the revenue streams required to fund our national development agenda.”
In a statement signed by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister, Lokpobiri emphasized that the project reflects the Federal Government’s reform agenda in fostering transparency, fairness, and accountability in project approvals.
He noted that his ministry has prioritized merit-based evaluation for project proposals, ensuring that operators who meet regulatory standards are supported regardless of personal connections.
“Investors and operators do not need to know me personally before their applications are approved,” he said. “As long as you comply with the extant laws and regulations, your projects will receive timely consideration. For instance, this is my first time meeting the Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources Limited, yet the approval of this project was based solely on compliance and merit.”
Lokpobiri further praised Oriental Energy Resources for its innovation, resilience, and dedication to Nigeria’s economic growth, describing the EMEM FPSO as a symbol of indigenous capacity and technical excellence.
“The success of this project demonstrates the increasing capability of Nigerian companies to deliver complex energy projects while adhering to international standards,” the Minister added.
In his remarks, Alhaji (Dr.) Mohammed Indimi, OFR, Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources Limited, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and regulatory agencies for their continued support and for providing an enabling environment for indigenous operators to thrive.
“In 2022, we made the ambitious decision to develop the Okwok Field entirely independently. The sail-away of the EMEM FPSO is a critical milestone in that journey,” Indimi said.
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“The Minister didn’t have to know me or our company before providing the necessary support we required. This reflects the posture of this administration, and I commend him for that.”
The EMEM FPSO, which will serve as a central hub for production, storage, and offloading operations at the Okwok Field, is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s daily output and strengthen the country’s drive for energy security and self-reliance.
Lokpobiri reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to ensure that similar projects are executed transparently and efficiently, emphasizing that Nigeria remains open to investors committed to compliance, sustainability, and national development.
“Our goal is to make Nigeria the most attractive destination for energy investments in Africa where transparency, fairness, and performance are the standards,” the Minister concluded.
