L–R: The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources, Mrs. Idonije Mojisola Dupe; the Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas Resources, Hon. Andrew Momodu; the Executive Director, Business Services, NNPC E&P Limited; during the presentation of a gift to the Commissioner at his office.
The Edo State Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources has hosted a familiarisation engagement with the Nigerian Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), aimed at strengthening collaboration and fostering mutual understanding between both organisations on enhancing the State’s Developmental Agenda.
The Commissioner for Oil and Gas Resources, Hon. Andrew Momodu, in his remarks, stated that the engagement was convened to build synergy and to explore areas of collaboration between the Ministry and NEPL. He noted that the Ministry has played a significant role in mediating between oil operators and host communities, particularly in ensuring compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), local content requirements, and the remittance of operational costs for host community development.
Hon. Momodu explained that many oil wells in Edo State operate as joint ventures with NEPL, with operators often deferring responsibility to NEPL as their parent company, a situation he stated has created challenges for the Ministry in enforcing compliance, hence the need for direct engagement with NEPL.
The Commissioner emphasised that the Edo State Government is focused on development and expressed concerns over the limited impact of NEPL’s operations on the State’s growth. He stressed the need for stronger contributions from NEPL towards the development of the State and its host communities, while assuring the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to work collaboratively towards that goal.
In response, the Executive Director, Business Services, NNPC E&P Limited, Mr. Tosin Olakiigbe, appreciated the Commissioner for the opportunity to engage. He described NEPL as a business deeply committed to stakeholders’ engagement and collaboration. He assured the Ministry of NEPL’s readiness to work closely with the State Government in the interest of host communities and in alignment with the Federal Government’s mandate for safe, sustainable oil production and the equitable distribution of industry benefits.
Mr. Olakiigbe highlighted NEPL’s core value of shared prosperity, reaffirming the Organisation’s commitment to investing in the development, sustainability, and economic well-being of host communities.
The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Idonije Mojisola Dupe, expressed appreciation to the NEPL delegation for the visit.
The meeting concluded on a forward-looking note, with both parties reaffirming their commitments to sustain dialogue, deepen collaboration, and practical actions that will translate into tangible development for Edo State and its host communities.
By Joyce Odion Akhigbe
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources