From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Minister of State for Petroleum Resource (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, has linked crude oil shortfall to issues encountered on the Trans Niger Pipeline, coupled with maintenance activities carried out by some Oil companies operating in Nigeria.
The Minister, in a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, said that measures were not only being taken to restore production to previous levels, but to also increase it.
He said: “In response to recent concerns regarding a shortfall in oil production in Nigeria during the first quarter of 2024, The Honourable Minster of State for Petroleum Resource (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Ph.D assures that measures are being taken to address the situation to, not only restore production to previous levels, but to also increase it.
“The minister clarifies that the reported production shortfall was primarily due to issues encountered on the Trans Niger Pipeline, coupled with maintenance activities carried out by some Oil companies operating in Nigeria.
“The Minister is also pleased to announce that the issues have been adequately addressed, and production is expected to return to its previous levels in the coming days.
“He anticipates that Nigeria’s oil production, including condensate, which was approximately 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) prior to these developments, will soon be restored.
“Furthermore, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources is actively engaged in policy evolution aimed at maximizing the utilization of all available wells in Nigeria.
“This strategic approach will enable the country to ramp up production, thereby generating vital revenue to stabilize the nation’s foreign exchange reserves.
“The increased revenue will also empower the government to fulfill its commitments in providing essential infrastructure, as outlined in the 2024 budget.
“The Minister further assures of renewed hope as Nigeria navigates through these challenges, while urging all to remain committed to ensuring the sustainability and growth of Nigeria’s oil sector, which plays a crucial role in driving the nation’s economy.”