Senator Lokpobiri Calls for Increased Exploration, Urges Stakeholders to Embrace Energy Mix

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has emphasized the need for increased exploration and production activities in the oil sector, as the country shifts focus from energy transition to energy mix.

Speaking at the 43rd Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Senator Lokpobiri noted that the old narrative on energy transition had led to low investment in the sector, but with the renewed focus on energy mix, stakeholders must rise to the challenge.

He assured that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to creating a conducive environment for oil and gas operations, with the full implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the utilization of the Frontier Exploration Fund (FEF).

The Minister emphasized that energy security is crucial for national prosperity and that the era of dormant fields is over, as the government enforces the PIA’s “drill or drop” provision.

Senator Lokpobiri called on NAPE to partner with the government and other stakeholders to utilize the FEF and deliver expected outcomes for the oil sector, saying NAPE remains indispensable to Nigeria’s energy success.

The Minister’s message was underpinned by the theme #RenewedHope, as he urged stakeholders to work together to harness Nigeria’s natural resources for the benefit of the nation.