FG seek strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers to curb oil theft

Heineken Lokpobiri, minister for state petroleum resources (oil), has engaged traditional rulers in Bayelsa State in a bid to strengthen collaboration against oil theft in the Nigeria.

Nneamaka Okafor, the special adviser on media and communication to the minister disclosed this in a statement at the weekend.

According to Okafor, the initiative aligns with the government’s unwavering commitment to foster cooperation with key stakeholders in the oil industry aimed at addressing persistent challenges such as pipeline vandalization, crude theft, and security uncertainties in oil-bearing communities across the region.

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“The Minister for State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has embarked on a series of insightful and collaborative courtesy visits to traditional rulers in Bayelsa State.

“This strategic initiative aligns with the minister’s unwavering commitment to foster cooperation with key stakeholders in the oil industry, specifically aimed at addressing persistent challenges such as pipeline vandalization, crude theft, and security uncertainties in oil-bearing communities across the region,” she said.

According to Okafor, the minister met with the Pere of Ekpetiama clan and Chairman of the Traditional Rulers’ Council of Bayelsa State, Bubaraye Dakolo.

Lokpobiri, according to the statement, urged the leaders to utilize their positions to address the issues of insecurity of pipelines and illicit activities in the oil sector.

The minister also extended his courtesy visit to the King of Nembe Kingdom and former Minister of Petroleum, HRM Edmund Daukoru.

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The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a secure and prosperous oil sector, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between a thriving oil industry and national prosperity.

“These meticulous visits underline the minister’s dedication to leaving no stone unturned in achieving the federal government’s objective of increasing crude production for the prosperity of the nation.

“By actively engaging with traditional rulers, the minister aims to build a strong and enduring alliance with local leaders, fostering a secure environment that is conducive to sustainable growth in the oil industry,” the statement said.