Isaac Ombe, Yenagoa
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, says Nigeria is focused on ramping up its oil production.
Sen. Lokpobiri spoke when he received Ambassador of the United Arab Emirate (UAE) to Nigeria, HE Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, in his Abuja office, during a courtesy visit.
In a statement from Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Minister, Nneamaka Okafor, said the Minister emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to increasing oil production, stating that while Nigeria is not in a rush to transit away from oil, the country is actively seeking to enhance its production capabilities.
“We are focused on ramping up our oil production.
READ ALSO: http://Peter Obi slams FG, says ‘It’s time to stop financial indiscipline’
“At the same time, we are inviting UAE investors to look at Nigeria as a prime destination. Our business environment is friendly, and our crude deposits are vast,” he explained.
The Minister also highlighted the benefits of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), saying that the Act provides a robust legal framework that guarantees returns on investments and has significantly reshaped the oil and gas sector.
“The PIA ensures a secure and profitable investment climate, making Nigeria an attractive location for investors,” he noted.
The Minister described the visit of the UAE Ambassador and his team as an indication of valued relationship between the two countries.
“The visit from Ambassador Al Shamsi and his team is a testament to the valued relationship between our two nations.
READ ALSO: http://Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship: PTDF screens 600 South-South candidates
“It underscores our commitment to transforming our energy sectors for mutual benefit.”, he added.
He also lauded the recent bilateral agreement to restore visa issuance for Nigerians, which had been on hold for some time,” he added.
While attributing the achievement to the dedication of President Bola Tinubu, whose efforts were pivotal in reinstating the important service, Senator Lokpobiri acknowledged that the restoration of visa services is particularly significant given the high volume of travel between Nigeria and the UAE.
“The restoration of visa services is a critical development that will enhance the mobility of our citizens,” the Minister said.
“President Tinubu’s dedication has made this possible, and it will significantly benefit the many Nigerians who frequently travel to the UAE.”
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: http://Proprietor collects WAEC, NECO fees, sells school, flies abroad
The Minister assured the UAE delegation of Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining a conducive environment for all investors, and Nigeria’s dedication to creating and sustaining conditions that are favorable for investment.
This would reinforce the country’s position as a key player in the global energy market, Lokpobiri added.
In his response, Amb. Al Shamsi, who predicted great future for Nigeria’s energy sector, commended the President Tinubu-led administration’s efforts at creating conducive atmosphere for investment.
“We see great potential in Nigeria’s energy sector and appreciate the steps being taken to create a conducive investment environment. Our countries have much to gain from continued collaboration,” the UAE ebvoys said.