‘Indigenous service providers crucial to boosting Nigeria’s oil output’

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has emphasized the critical role of indigenous oil service providers in driving Nigeria’s oil production growth, citing the government’s renewed commitment under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership to foster collaboration and support local firms.

Speaking during an inspection of Geoplex OFS and WCS facilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Lokpobiri noted, “Our drive toward increasing production will be a mirage if we do not foster strong collaboration with oil service providers, especially indigenous ones.”

According to him, his visit underscores the administration’s resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through active support for indigenous service providers, which are crucial to the nation’s energy security and economic development.

The Minister commended the operations and infrastructure of Geoplex, asserting that the firm was well-equipped to compete with renowned international service companies.

“Observing their operations and infrastructure, I can confidently attest that Geoplex is well-positioned to compete favorably with renowned international service firms,” he said.

Lokpobiri lauded the Chairman of Geoplex Group, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, and his team for their dedication to excellence, which aligns with the government’s vision to enhance production.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment and encouraging sustained investments to ensure the growth of indigenous service firms.

“By fostering a conducive business environment and encouraging sustained investments, we are ensuring that indigenous service firms like Geoplex receive the support they need to thrive, ultimately driving growth in our oil sector,” Lokpobiri stated.