FG seeks stronger ties with indigenous oil firms

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Heineken Lokpobiri

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing collaboration with indigenous oil service providers, as a critical strategy to boost crude oil production and drive the growth of the oil and gas sector.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, made this assertion while inspecting Geoplex Oilfield Services and WCS facilities in Port Harcourt.

The Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Minister, Nneamaka Okafor, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

While speaking at the event, the statement noted that Lokpobiri emphasised the importance of supporting indigenous service providers to achieve the nation’s production targets.

“Our drive to increase production will be a mirage if we do not have strong collaboration with oil service providers, especially indigenous ones.

“However, with the renewed strategies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, we are taking deliberate steps to ensure that these collaborations thrive”, the statement quoted the minister to have said.

Speaking further, Lokpobiri commended Geoplex Oilfield Services for its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to global standards, noting that the company is well-equipped to compete favourably with international oil service firms.

“From my observations during the inspection, it is evident that Geoplex is fortified to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry at par with international service providers. Their dedication is truly commendable,” he stated.

The chairman of Geoplex Group, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, expressed appreciation for the government’s recognition of Indigenous players’ contributions to the sector.

He reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting national goals through excellence and innovation.

“We at Geoplex are proud to be part of the solution to Nigeria’s production challenges. Our facilities, investments, and technical expertise are all geared toward complementing the government’s efforts to ramp up production. We appreciate the support of the Federal Government and remain committed to our mission”, he stated.

The statement added that the inspection provided insights into the critical role indigenous firms play in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

However, the minister highlighted the need for a conducive business environment and sustained investments to empower local service providers. He noted that fostering these partnerships is important to achieving Tinubu’s administration’s objectives of revitalizing the oil sector and restoring Nigeria’s position as a leading oil-producing nation in Africa.

He further commended Geoplex Group’s leadership for their efforts, stating, “The work being done here is exemplary. Companies like Geoplex are proving that Indigenous firms can deliver world-class services. With such dedication, we are confident that the future of Nigeria’s oil sector is in good hands.

“The Federal Government’s renewed focus on indigenous oil service providers aligns with its broader goal of maximizing local content in the sector, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth. With ongoing initiatives to provide a supportive environment, the administration seeks to unlock the full potential of local firms while ensuring Nigeria meets its production targets.

“As we chart a path toward energy security and sustainable growth, the collaboration between the government and indigenous oil service providers like Geoplex underscores the vital role of public-private partnerships in achieving national objectives.”

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