By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, assured oil and gas companies operating in the region on Thursday that they would have a secure environment that would safeguard their investments.
The Governor made these remarks during a courtesy visit from senior management of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, the purchaser of SPDC’s shares in the NNPC/SPDC/TOTAL/AGIP Joint Ventures, at the Government House in Asaba.
Emphasizing the importance of crude oil to the nation’s economy, Oborevwori stressed the necessity for a robust and sustainable partnership that benefits all involved parties.
He urged oil companies in Delta State to foster mutually beneficial relationships with their host communities, encouraging collaboration to inspire the trust and confidence needed to enhance their operations.
Oborevwori stated, “The Chairman and the Managing Director are seasoned professionals who have worked in this environment and are familiar with Shell’s operations.”
He reflected on his own experience as the youngest Community Chairman for Shell in the western division while serving as Chairman of the Osubi Community, sharing insights from engaging in a People’s Parliament and participating in oil seminars with key regional leaders.
“I firmly believe in dialogue over confrontation. With your leadership at this company, I am confident you will thrive,” he added. “I assure you that your operations here will be safe. Delta State is currently one of the most peaceful states in the South-South region, ensuring your investment is secure.”
Highlighting the crucial role of oil in the national economy, he emphasized the need for strong relationships with host communities: “A good rapport with the local community prevents issues.”
While discussing security, Oborevwori noted, “All our oil facilities are secure, and since I took office, there have been no recorded attacks on oil installations. We currently lead as the highest oil-producing state, and I hope to maintain that status. Let’s work together to establish a partnership that offers value to all stakeholders.”
He concluded by indicating the state’s willingness to support the company’s success, stating that “as you succeed, we will also benefit through our tax revenues. You have my complete support in this endeavor.”
Earlier, the Chairman of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, Dr. Layi Fatoma, expressed gratitude to the Governor for granting them an audience, stating that the purpose of their visit was to formally introduce the company’s leadership while also thanking him for the support previously provided to Shell.
Engr. Tony Attah, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the company, emphasized the company’s ambition to promote energy security in Nigeria, starting from the Niger Delta.
“We aim to play a leading role in Africa’s energy sector, and it’s paramount that we begin this journey at home. This is a key reason for our return to the region to strengthen connections,” he explained.
Attah also mentioned the alignment of their mission with the MORE Agenda of the Delta State Government, affirming that the nation’s progress depends heavily on the oil and gas sector. He expressed confidence that the support the company receives as a 100% Nigerian entity, specifically from Delta, would surpass the support given to Shell in the past and looked forward to a fruitful partnership with the Governor.
