FG will tackle oil theft with drones, satellite surveillance deployment - Lokpobiri – Newstrends
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FG will tackle oil theft with drones, satellite surveillance deployment – Lokpobiri

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5 months ago

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

FG will tackle oil theft with drones, satellite surveillance deployment – Lokpobiri

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, yesterday said the federal government would deploy new technologies like drones and satellite surveillance to halt massive oil theft in the Niger Delta.

Lokpobiri also called for greater commitment from industry players to Nigeria’s ambitious plan to increase crude oil production by over one million barrels per day within the next 24 months, saying the federal government was ready to host the headquarters of the $5 billion Africa Energy Bank (AEB), following the country’s successful bid in July 2024.

Addressing a gathering of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), a group of oil firms operating in Nigeria, at the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting in Istanbul, Turkey, at the weekend, Lokpobiri also restated that oil field bid winners must explore or relinquish them.

The minister’s spokesperson, Nneamaka Okafor, said in a statement that Lokpobiri’s remarks were part of a strategic plan to navigate the challenges and opportunities in Nigeria’s petroleum industry presented to the producers.

Underscoring the sector’s central role in Nigeria’s economy, which the minister said provides around 85 per cent of government revenue as well as serves as a vital source of foreign exchange, the minister said there was the need for the oil sector to remain resilient.

He acknowledged the persistent security challenges in the Niger Delta but reported ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s oil infrastructure through enhanced security measures.
Aside from engaging communities and encouraging partnerships to foster local ownership of critical assets, Lokpobiri stated that other efforts include increased military support, particularly from the Nigerian Navy and the Joint Task Force (JTF).

“The government has also implemented technology-driven solutions, including drone and satellite surveillance to enhance the security framework and detect potential threats to the industry,” the minister said.
The minister outlined Nigeria’s dual approach to energy transition to ensure the future of its petroleum industry by focusing on maximising crude oil production and adapting to a cleaner energy transition.

“In the short-term, our focus remains on increasing revenue from crude oil production,” Lokpobiri stated.
He stressed that the government recognised the urgency of cost reduction, highlighting the government’s measures aimed at streamlining operations, particularly upstream activities, to remain competitive in the global market.
The minister said: “The world is moving toward cleaner energy, and Nigeria must be part of that transition. The government has prioritised natural gas as a cleaner alternative while actively exploring renewable energy options to diversify Nigeria’s energy mix.”

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He listed part of the bouquet of reforms and incentives to revitalise Nigeria’s oil and gas sector as the Value Added Tax (VAT) modification order 2024 and the tax incentives order for deep offshore oil and gas production.
Lokpobiri told the gathering that the Nigerian government was focused on reducing contracting costs and timelines and has therefore mandated that the procurement cycle be streamlined to six months.

In addition, he highlighted the government’s commitment to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, which promotes local content.
The minister emphasised that the government’s recent initiative to launch bid rounds for 31 oil and gas blocks will be a cornerstone of Nigeria’s strategic development.

“Each block has been meticulously selected for its potential to boost reserves and stimulate economic growth. In line with international best practices, barriers to entry have been reduced through signature bonuses to attract a wider range of investors, with strict enforcement of Nigeria’s ‘drill or drop’ policy,” he added.
Lokpobiri called for greater commitment from industry players to support Nigeria’s ambitious plan to increase oil production by over 1 million barrels per day within the next 24 months.

“We cannot afford to hold valuable fields in perpetuity. It’s either you put them to work or relinquish them. The era of renewing licenses without development is over,” he reiterated.
Meanwhile, the federal government has confirmed its readiness to host the headquarters of the $5 billion Africa Energy Bank (AEB), following the country’s successful bid in July 2024.
Preparations are underway to ensure a seamless operational launch of the Bank in the first quarter of 2025, the minister said in a separate statement.

Lokpobiri spoke at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Ministerial Council of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) held in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
While speaking to the ministers of the 18 APPO member-states, Lokpobiri expressed Nigeria’s enthusiasm for the project, stating: “We are prepared to host the AEB, and our dedication to enhancing funding for Africa’s energy sector remains unwavering.”

One of the bank’s missions is to bridge financing gaps within Africa’s oil and gas industry, facilitating advancements in energy infrastructure across the continent.
Lokpobiri emphasised that the federal government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, has taken significant steps to lay the groundwork for the bank’s strategic objectives.

“Our commitment is underscored by Nigeria’s contribution of $69.1 million in equity funding to the bank, which demonstrates our leadership role in supporting critical energy initiatives on the continent,” he noted.
Beyond financial contributions, Nigeria, he said, has also formally signed and ratified the AEB establishment agreement and charter, a development that APPO has praised as a significant leap toward establishing the bank.
With the treaty now in effect, the legal and operational framework is set, paving the way for the AEB’s launch and enabling it to advance its objectives of enhancing energy security on the continent, the minister added.

“I urge all member countries to expedite their subscription and payment of their allocated shares to the AEB. Together, we can achieve remarkable advancements in our energy sectors and establish ourselves as a continental energy hub,” the minister added.

FG will tackle oil theft with drones, satellite surveillance deployment – Lokpobiri

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Natasha says she won’t be forced into submission, denies apology

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2 hours ago

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March 25, 2025

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Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan

Natasha says she won’t be forced into submission, denies apology

Suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has denied reports that she apologised to the Senate over the issue that led to her suspension.

In a statement released on Monday, Akpoti-Uduaghan condemned the charges as “false and misleading,” asserting that she maintains her position.

“The reports suggesting that I have apologised to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue. I stand firmly by my words and actions and have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” she said.

She chastised individuals disseminating false claims, accusing them of attempting to distort the truth and misinform the public.

The senator, who was suspended following a disagreement with Senate leadership, stated that she is still devoted to defending her constituents’ rights and that some people are attempting to mislead public opinion with false remarks.

“I urge the public to disregard these rumours and publications, as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent.”

Natasha also expressed concern over what she called a planned effort to silence her voice in the National Assembly.

She stated, “This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives.

Natasha urged Nigerians to be careful of misinformation, adding that any official statement from her would come only from her verified channels.

“I appreciate the support and solidarity of my people. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for what is right and just.”

Following her suspension from the Senate, some have advocated for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall.

The recall effort came after she was suspended from the Senate following a heated debate with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements.

She also accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and has subsequently taken her case to local and international media outlets, as well as the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union.

 

Natasha says she won’t be forced into submission, denies apology

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UNIOSUN mourns as 5 students die in auto crash

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2 hours ago

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March 25, 2025

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UNIOSUN mourns as 5 students die in auto crash

A tragic auto accident on the Ikire-Ibadan expressway has claimed the lives of five students from Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo.

The fatal crash, which occurred on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Balogun Area of Ikire, involved a luxurious bus traveling from Ibadan and an 18-passenger bus from Osogbo. Reports indicate that both vehicles collided head-on, resulting in multiple casualties.

In addition to the UNIOSUN students, five other individuals also lost their lives in the horrific accident, bringing the total death toll to ten.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the cause of the crash, but emergency responders were on the scene to provide assistance.

A statement released by the Institution’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, stated that reports from the Nigerian Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), that the accident was caused by the head-on collision of the two buses, leading to a severe impact that claimed the lives of several passengers.

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“Our University Management, upon receiving this distressing news, swiftly dispatched a team to the scene to identify and support any of our students involved in the accident.

“Regrettably, we confirm the loss of the following students; Olagbemide Dotun, a 200-level student of Software Engineering, Suleiman Farouq, a 400-level student of Law, Ogundare Pelumi, a 300-level student of Public Health, Ogundare Elijah, a 100-level student of Mechanical Engineering and Olawuyi Mary, a 200-level student of Nursing.

“However, one of our students, Olagbemide Damilola, a 200-level student of Medicine and Surgery, survived the accident and is currently receiving medical attention.

“Osun State University is working closely with the relevant authorities to gather more details on the circumstances surrounding the accident. We are also providing necessary moral and logistical support to the bereaved families, including funeral arrangements for the deceased students.

“This tragic loss has deeply shaken our University community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the deceased. We urge our students, staff, and the entire university community to remain calm and supportive during this difficult time”, he said.

 

UNIOSUN mourns as 5 students die in auto crash

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Rivers HoS resigns, new SSG named

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2 hours ago

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March 25, 2025

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River State Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas

Rivers HoS resigns, new SSG named

Rivers Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has announced the resignation of the Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, describing the development as sad.

The Administrator appreciated the immense contributions of Nwaeke in the short period he served the administration and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Ibas said in the interim, Dr Iyingi Brown, Permanent Secretary Welfare, Office of the Head of Service had been appointed in acting capacity until the emergence of a new Head of Service.

While congratulating her on her appointment,  Ibas assured the people of Rivers of his commitment to neutrality, peace and stability.

Ibas also announced the appointment of Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika as the new Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG).

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He said his appointment followed careful consideration of his credentials, extensive experience, and performance during rigorous selection process.

“Prof. Worika’s distinguished career spans academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles, making him uniquely qualified to support the Administrator in the onerous task of achieving Mr President’s mandate. His appointment takes immediate effect,” Ibas said.

He added that Worika’s appointment reflected his commitment to harnessing the great human capital of the Rivers’ people to work with him to achieve the much-needed peace, stability and security.

Worika, who hails from Okirika, Rivers State, is a globally recognised scholar, legal expert and administrator with a track record in public service and institutional leadership.

He holds a Ph.D. in International Environmental and Comparative Petroleum Law & Policy from the University of Dundee, United Kingdom, and has performed roles across academia, international organizations, and government advisory capacities.

He is the Director of the Centre for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University and served as Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt.

Rivers HoS resigns, new SSG named

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