'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has urged for strengthened collaboration between state and federal authorities to accelerate investment in the oil sector, following the federal government's reaffirmation of Kogi's status as an oil-producing state.
A statement today by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, disclosed that during a working visit to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, in Abuja on Thursday, Governor Ododo emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for investors to tap into Kogi's oil potential. He expressed his administration’s readiness to cooperate with federal initiatives aimed at enhancing oil exploration, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to developing frontier basins across Nigeria.
Governor Ododo stated, “Our administration is dedicated to ensuring that Kogi becomes a hub for oil exploration and production. We are open to partnerships that will not only accelerate investment but also contribute to the economic growth of our state.”
In response, Senator Lokpobiri reaffirmed Kogi's designation as an oil-producing state and highlighted the federal government's commitment to mobilizing resources for the exploration of its substantial oil deposits. He noted that the Petroleum Industry Act tasks the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) with exploring frontier basins, indicating a strategic focus on unlocking new discoveries.
The minister praised Governor Ododo for his effective governance and proactive approach to attracting investment, stating, “The federal government is determined to support Kogi in realizing its oil potential. Together, we can facilitate the necessary investments to ensure the successful exploration of our resources.”
Kogi State marked a significant milestone in 2022 when the federal government confirmed the discovery of oil in commercial quantities, making it the first oil-producing state in Northern Nigeria. This development has sparked renewed interest in the state’s economic prospects, prompting calls for strategic partnerships to harness its oil wealth.
As Kogi seeks to position itself as a leader in Nigeria’s oil industry, the governor’s visit underscores the importance of federal-state collaboration in unlocking the state's economic potential and driving sustainable development.
