The Edo State Government is actively engaging stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to ensure the successful implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and promote sustainable peace and development in the state.
Under the theme “Effective Implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA): A Strategic Tool for Sustainable Peace Among Stakeholders,” Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by Commissioner for Local Government Affairs Hon. Monday Osaigbovo, emphasized the importance of diligent implementation of the new law to attract more investments in the sector.
The one-day oil and gas stakeholders’ meeting, organized by the Edo State Ministry of Mining, Oil and Gas in Benin City, aims to foster peace and enhance collaboration between the government, oil and gas-producing communities, and other stakeholders.
Governor Obaseki highlighted the significance of the oil and gas sector in the Nigerian economy and the need to reevaluate its contributions to communities and the state. He expressed the belief that enshrining peace and improving the security of lives and property are vital to attracting investments and ensuring the prosperity of the people.
The governor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the lives of residents in the oil and gas-producing local governments through the establishment of the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), which has provided opportunities for human development and basic amenities.
The Commissioner for Mining, Oil and Gas, Ethan Osazee Uzamere, highlighted the state’s implementation of the PIA, emphasizing its role in promoting ease of doing business, regulating the industry, creating job opportunities, and ending fuel importation and subsidies.
In addition, Chief Stanley Obamwonyi, representing the Oba of Benin and the Esere of Benin, encouraged host communities to seize the opportunities presented by the Act and collaborate with the state government in achieving desired development and growth.
