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RIVERS PEACEFUL, CONDUCIVE FOR INVESTMENTS, REPS AFFIRM
The leaderships of the midstream and downstream sub-sectors of Nigeria’s petroleum industry have affirmed that Rivers State is peaceful, hospitable and conducive for investments, urging potential investors around the world to discountenance negative narratives about political crisis by enemies of the State, and make strategic decisions to invest in Africa’s largest hydrocarbon hub, for exciting returns on investment for shareholders and other stakeholders.
The Chairmen of the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream), Hon Ikeagwuonu Michael Ugochinyere (PDP Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, Imo State); and Hon Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie (Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency, Edo State); made the affirmation in their separate remarks at the three-day retreat of the joint committee in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
About 100 actors in the sector are participating in the retreat, out of which no fewer than 80 are legislators representing federal constituencies across the six geopolitical zones of the country, while others represented oil and gas companies, major and independent marketers, refineries and petrochemicals firms, among others.
Hon Ugochinyere said that the State is peaceful because of the good leadership and responsible governance approach adopted by the Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who has remained focused on the ball, while facilitating the ease of doing business and creating the right policies to enable investments to thrive in the State.
He added that if the State was not peaceful, the huge number of National Assembly committees on oversight functions, and the litany of investors and other corporate institutions who have visited the State over the last couple of months to explore abounding opportunities would not have been possible, and advised well-meaning Nigerians and the international community to disregard those trying to demarket the State.
Hon Ugochinyere said: “We are gathered here in Port Harcourt, united by a shared commitment to enhance our regulatory frameworks, promote transparency, and foster sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector…
“I extend my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for graciously hosting us and for his unwavering support. Your leadership and hospitality are greatly appreciated”.
Speaking earlier, he said: “Today is not a day for politics. We are here in Rivers State for development purposes. We want to appeal to the IGP (Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun), here (Rivers State) has been very peaceful. That is why our retreat is holding in Rivers State. If Rivers State is not peaceful, over 80 federal lawmakers from the midstream and downstream petroleum sector will not be coming here for their three-day retreat.
“We will want this peace to continue. That is why we are appealing to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) not to take sides in this crisis. He should allow the rule of law to prevail, and stop aiding, in any way, the other side who are from Abuja”.
Speaking further on the role of the police in the political crisis in the State, Hon Ugochinyere said: “But I must say this as a Nigerian, not because I belong to any interest or divide in the struggle: That respecting the rights of the people must be paramount to the Police Force. The Police must not act in a way that they are seen as giving undue advantage to the Abuja politician.
“The Governor (Sir Siminalayi Fubara) deserves some respect; the people of Rivers State deserve some respect. Indiscriminate arrests; indiscriminate attacks; these are things that are not welcome, and are not acceptable in any democratic setting”.
Speaking on the retreat, Hon Ugochinyere, added that the peaceful atmosphere in the State was evident in the congenial and enabling environment for fruitful dialogue and thriving investments and businesses, and a clear contrast to what detractors of the State were painting in their orchestrated political crisis.
He stated that the retreat was pivotal in changing the narratives, and provides stakeholders with robust platform to deliberate on burning issues while exploring strategic solutions for the betterment of the industry.
The leader of the G-60 lawmakers further said, “As we commence this retreat, I wish to emphasize the significance of our gathering. The Petroleum Sector remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, and it is incumbent upon us to ensure its efficiency, transparency and sustainability. Our discussions over the next few days will be instrumental in shaping the future of this vital industry.
“We are privileged to have an array of distinguished speakers and experts who will share their insights on various aspects of the petroleum industry, from understanding objectives and significance of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), to exploring the roles and responsibilities of the newly established regulatory bodies.
“Our ongoing forensic legislative investigation into the anomalies within the oil and gas sector is crucial for restoring trust and ensuring integrity in our industry. We are addressing allegations concerning the importation of substandard petroleum products, non-availability of crude oil supply to domestic refineries and other critical issues that threaten the stability and security of our petroleum sector.”
Speaking on the ease of doing business in the State, Hon Ugochinyere specifically named Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals and Fertiliser Company as one example of the litany of thriving investments in Rivers State, which shareholders are genuinely proud of, saying that more of such businesses populate the State, making it an enticing environment for investors.
In his remarks, Hon Okojie, said: “We gather here in the dynamic city of Port Harcourt, at the prestigious Presidential Hotel, under the theme; ‘Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks, Promoting Transparency, and Fostering Sustainable Development in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector.’ This retreat is a critical convergence of minds and efforts aimed at addressing the pressing issues and exploring the immense opportunities within our sector”.
Represented by member representing Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, Hon Marie Enenimiete Ebikake, Hon Okojie said, “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, our host, for his unwavering support and warm hospitality. We are truly honoured to be in the presence of such distinguished leadership”.
Saying that the warm reception and hospitality was characteristic of the good people of Rivers State, he added that the story of the success of the oil and gas industry cannot be written in Nigeria without Rivers State, as a dominant hub, which has played a key role in the development and transformation of the nation’s economy.
Hon Okojie, said that deliberations from the retreat will positively impact the oil and gas industry, especially in providing clearer understanding of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) governance and institutional frameworks to promote growth and sustainability in the sector.
He said, “I would like to highlight the importance of our interaction with stakeholders in the midstream and downstream sub-sectors. This engagement is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by our industry, and collaboratively devising solutions that promote growth and sustainability.”
In his keynote speech, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said the 10th National Assembly is committed to deploying effective legislative reforms to strengthen the operations, create competitive business-friendly environment, institutionalise transparency and sustainable development in the oil and gas industry.
Represented by the Leader of the North-West Caucus in the House, Hon. Sada Soli, the speaker also noted that the National Assembly has already commenced the processes of legislative reforms that will enhance holistic governance overhaul with a view to transforming the nation’s major economic driver and revenue earner in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Rt. Hon. Abbas said that the federal lawmakers were dedicated to fostering an environment to effectively drive the objectives of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in promoting the key indices of ease of doing business while providing stakeholders the level playing field to participate in the sector.
He said, “The theme of this retreat speaks volume on the commitment of the 10th House towards repositioning the energy sector of our economy. Our nation’s economic power is derived and dependent on oil. Over the years, the debate over the regulation, transparency and sustainable development of the sector has dominated discussions even after the passage and coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act in the 9th Assembly.
“This retreat is, therefore, an opportunity to reflect on the issues once again, and make recommendations to the House on the best approaches to promote transparency and sustainable development in the sector”.
Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Rivers State Chapter, Comrade Tekena ThankGod Ikpaki, and the Chairman, Major Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (MPMAN), Rivers State Chapter, Sir Francis Dimkpa, delivered goodwill messages at the event, where they expressed concerns over the multiplicity of regulatory bodies and fees slammed on marketers.
Speakers at the retreat include the Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services and Administration, Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Dr Kelechi Ofoegbu; Chairman, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; Director-General, Akwa Ibom State Investment Council, Obong Ibe Owodiong-Idemeko; and Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacchaeus Adelabu Adedeji.
Also, expert resource panellists included; Barrister Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr Farouk Ahmed; Chief Executive Officer, NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe; Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kolo Kyari; Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi; Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke; and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote.
The retreat wrapped up with a facility tour of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited at Eleme Local Government Area of the State. yesterday.
The Rivers State Government has vowed to enforce strict compliance with approved building plans by property owners and developers in the State to guarantee safety and adherence to regulatory standards.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Evans Bipi, in his inaugural meeting with the Permanent Secretary, Directors and staff of the Ministry, said he would ensure full implementation of the Physical Planning Development Law of the State.
He warned that the Rivers State Government will no longer condone a situation where developers make deliberate adjustment or completely deviate from approved building plan in the execution of their projects without recourse to the Ministry.
Hon. Bipi solicited the cooperation of the civil servants of the Ministry while promising to run an open door policy and be easily accessible.
He also promised to right the wrongs, make a positive impact and leave an enduring legacy in the Ministry.
He promised to enhance the physical landscape and aesthetic of Old and New GRA as well as other parts of Port Harcourt.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Surv. Wisdom Hebron, assured the Commissioner of maximum cooperation to foster a harmonious working environment.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the payment of N85,000.00 as the new minimum wage for civil servants in the employ of the Rivers State Government.
This is the agreement reached during a closed door meeting presided over by the Governor and attended by representatives of organised labour under the auspices of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council in the State at Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday.
Briefing newsmen after the meeting, the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, Dr George Nwaeke, who spoke on behalf of the Government, affirmed that Governor Fubara has graciously approved a new minimum wage of N85,000.00, adding that the government will begin in November, 2024.
Dr George said, “He (Gov Fubara) has pronounced a figure that is higher than the National Minimum Wage. He pronounced a sum of N85,000.00, which is higher than the minimum wage that was prescribed nationally.
“So, as the Head of Service and a major stakeholder in the labour family, I am very happy to say that the Rivers State Civil Servants have never had it this good since the inception of this State.
“The labour union leaders and all the other major stakeholders were happy with this development,” he added.
Responding to possible payment of arrears, Dr Nwaeke, said it is yet to be determined because a technical committee has been set up to critically work out a tenable payment chart, which will cater to issues of arrears.
He clarified, “Issues of arrears will be worked out by the committee that I am going to be Deputy to the SSG. We are already going to work on it in a technical committee that will now get the nitty gritty of the payment and inform the press later.”
On his part, the Rivers State Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, Comrade Emecheta Chuku, explained that this is their first meeting with Governor Fubara to discuss the issue of the new minimum wage as approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Comrade Chuku pointed to the fact that the gracious approval of N85,000.00 new minimum wage is very appeasing to the labour leaders, adding that it demonstrates love for the workers.
He explained, “For the Governor to come, against all the crisis, against all the things that he is facing and more, to say he will pay N85,000.00 minimum wage, I think our hearts are full of joy.
“Of course, we have no doubt, knowing the kind of person we have as our Governor. He is a decent man; very responsible enough; and grew through the rank and file of the system. He understands what it takes to earn a living salary; he understands the difference between gifting money and paying somebody salary that can sustain him or her from the first day to the last day of the month.”
Also speaking, the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Rivers State Chapter, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, noted that the amount approved by Governor Fubara puts Rivers State Government ahead of Lagos State as the highest minimum wage paying State to civil servants in Nigeria.
He stressed, “Why do I say that? Lagos State said N85,000.00 and Rivers State is paying N85,000.00. The IGRs of Lagos State and Rivers State are not the same. So, for the Governor to agree to pay the same rate with Lagos, that means we are at the top of it.
“We are the best, and we want to continue to commend the Governor. We assure him that, as far as this State is concerned, labour is going to stand with him. We will be with him even until the next eight years.
“I want to commend His Excellency, Executive Governor of Rivers State, our own Number One Worker in Rivers State, he has, once again, proven that the workers in Rivers State gave him an award on May Day as the Champion of Labour, as the Most Labour-Friendly Governor in Nigeria. He, again, has shown that to us today, and I want to commend him.”
He added that they were returning to the State Secretariat Complex to inform workers of the Governor’s magnanimity and benevolence towards civil servants in the State.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has felicitated Muslim faithful as they celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, urging them to show love, tolerance, perseverance, patriotism and commitment to the growth and development of the State.
Governor Fubara, in a message in Port Harcourt, the State capital, urged the Muslim Ummah to use the lessons of the 12th day of the third month of Rabi’ al-Awwal to reflect on the core teachings of the Holy Prophet, and interceed for one another as exemplified by the sacrifices He made for humanity.
The Governor charged the faithful in the State and across the country to commit to ensuring that they continue to benefit from the genuine policies and programmes of government put in place to make live easy for all living and doing business in the State, without discrimination.
He said, “I, on behalf of the government and good people of Rivers State, heartily felicitate all Muslim faithful on the occasion of the Eid-el-Maulud celebration, to honour the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, and urge for prayers for the revival and unity of Nigeria.
“The occasion, yet again, provides an opportunity to reflect deeply on the need for greater application of the Prophet’s teachings bordering on piety, charity, patience, resilience, justice and peaceful coexistence,” he added.
Governor Fubara assured the Muslim community in Rivers State, and indeed, all residents of the resolve of his administration to sustain the tempo of providing critical projects and social services to improve the quality of life of the people.