The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has expressed dissatisfaction over the abandonment of the Brass Modern Refinery project in Bayelsa State.
The Minister made this known during an inspection visit at Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. He also inspected the Ewa-ama road project, which leads to Brass Petroleum Products Terminal (BPPT) where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalising critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
This was contained in a statement by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor on Thursday.
Accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the Minister emphasised that the completion of ongoing projects in the region is a key mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He assured that the Government is determined to ensure the realization of these projects within the President’s first two years in office.
“It is unacceptable that such a strategic project has been left in this state for so long,” Lokpobiri stated. “The Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that critical oil and gas infrastructure, like the Brass Refinery, is completed to create jobs and drive economic growth in the region.”
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During his visit, the Minister engaged with representatives of the host community, acknowledging their peaceful disposition despite the challenges they have faced. He urged them to continue supporting the Federal Government’s efforts and assured them that their concerns had been noted.
“I sincerely commend the people of Brass for their patience and cooperation,” he said. “Your support is invaluable, and I assure you that we will work tirelessly to address these issues and bring this project to completion.”
In response, a community representative expressed gratitude for the Minister’s visit, describing it as a significant step towards restoring confidence in the government’s commitment to the region.