The Technical Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Girl Child Development, Dr. Helen Bob, has heaped praises on Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Heineken Lokpobiri, for his pivotal role in reviving the Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Bob described the refinery's revival as a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s energy sector. She highlighted that the Port Harcourt Refinery, one of the country’s four refineries that had been dormant for years, is now functional under Lokpobiri’s leadership, demonstrating his competence and dedication to his role.
“This is a significant achievement. It is no coincidence that under Senator Lokpobiri’s watch, a refinery that had been comatose for years is now operational,” Dr. Bob said. “His contributions to this remarkable feat cannot be overstated. His commitment and hard work have ensured this milestone, and Nigerians are indeed fortunate to have him at the helm of affairs in the oil and gas sector.”
Dr. Bob further explained that the operationalization of the refinery, with a production capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, is a major step toward achieving self-sufficiency in petroleum product production. This development, she noted, will not only reduce the country’s dependency on imported fuel but also create jobs and improve the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.
She also acknowledged the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and other stakeholders in ensuring the refinery’s functionality. According to her, this achievement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the longstanding challenges in the oil and gas sector.
“The collaborative efforts of the federal government, NNPCL, and other key players have made this success possible,” she remarked. “This milestone will revitalize the energy sector, drive economic growth, and provide employment opportunities for Nigerians.”
Dr. Bob praised Lokpobiri’s transparent and accountable leadership, stating that his approach has restored public confidence in the management of Nigeria’s oil sector. She emphasized that his efforts reflect a broader vision of national development, with energy independence being a cornerstone of economic progress.
As Nigeria moves closer to self-sufficiency in petroleum product production, the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery stands as a symbol of hope, growth, and sustainability for the nation. Dr. Bob expressed optimism that this success will pave the way for similar milestones in the future.
