NNPCL Wants Collaboration Among Upstream Operators To Develop Divested Assets In Oil, Gas Industry

February 29, 2024

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has called for collaboration among upstream operators, especially independent producers, to find solutions to the challenges hindering the effective development of divested assets in the nation’s oil and gas industry.
The company’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, at a panel session in the ongoing 2024 Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES 2024), held today, February 29, in Abuja, said that past experiences with divestments and how the assets were operated have left much to be desired as most of them experienced a drop in production rather than growth.
Speaking on the theme: “Innovation, Collaboration, and Resilience: Empowering Independent Producers in the Dynamic Energy Era,” Eyesan said: “in the industry, if you want to measure success, there are some basic indicators that you utilise – production growth, reserves growth, and asset integrity. If I were to evaluate prior investment initiatives and scale the actors using these indices, I will be untrue to myself if I say everybody has done well. Yes, we acquired the assets; but today, we are worse off in terms of production than we were when we did the acquisition.”
The Executive Vice President acknowledged however, that there were some success stories in the operations of the independent producers.
She identified some of the challenges to include insecurity, lack of finance, and lack of technological capacity, stressing that with collaboration among industry players, the challenges could be surmounted.
“Collaboration cannot be overemphasized. Somebody said we should be in a state of emergency, and I totally agree with that. It’s not by sitting here and talking about the challenges, I think we should have a war room where we raise the issues and set out concrete plans to resolve them rather than wait for stakeholders individually to take them on. We need collaboration, collaboration, and collaboration.”
The panel session had key players in the sector such as the Chief Executive Officer of Aradel Holdings, Adegbite Falade; Managing Director of SNEPCo, Mrs. Elohor Aiboni; Managing Director of First E & P Development Company, Demola Adeyemi-Bero; and Chief Executive Officer, TotalEnergies, Matthieu Bouyer.
Others on the panel were: the Chief Executive Officer, ExxonMobil Nigeria, Shane Harris; Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, Dr Ainojie Alex Irune; and Director, Joint Venture, Chevron Nigeria, Cosmas Iwueze.

Fidelity Bank ‘Palliatives’ Throw Abuja Community Into Confusion, Operatives Flee Venue

Greenbarge Reporters

February 29, 2024

Fidelity Bank palliatives have thrown hungry residents of Chibiri community in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into confusion and more hunger.
In the midst of distributing the palliatives today, February 29, the management staff of the bank had to flee the venue to avoid being lynched by the angry residents when it became obvious that some group of people have hijacked the package . The package is made up of two kilogramme of rice, one kilogramme of garri and four pieces of indomie.
Our reporter who was at the venue, said that the bank management staff abruptly shut the van in which the items were stored from where they were being distributed and took to their heels when those who call themselves indigenes clashed with none indigenes over the mode of distribution.
The venue was said to have become rowdy and charged when only the indigenes were being called to receive the package, while none indigenes were ignored.
Information reaching us said that names of all the residents of the community have earlier been compiled in the palace of the community chief, with the intention that they would all benefit from the items.
However, trouble started when, at the venue, it was only the indigenes that were being called for nearly two hours.
”Why would they invite us to come and suffer in this hot sun if they would not give us the package,” one of the none indigenes complained.
The leader of the Fidelity bank team, a woman, who refused to give her name, had earlier told our reporter that the bank has made it a policy to participate in providing palliatives to poor Nigerians in various communities across the country.
The manager, who, in the heat of disagreement between the indigenes and none indigenes, drove off out of the venue in her Jeep with other staff of the bank, said that the palliatives are part of the efforts of the bank to support the government.

Nigerian Girl Wins International Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Jordan

Greenbarge Reporters

February 29, 2024

A female student of the Abubakar Siddiq Islamiyyah and 200 Level Botany Student at the Gombe State University in Nigeria, Hajara Ibrahim, has won International Quranic Recitation Competition in far away Jordan.
Young Hajara, an Ebira speaking girl from Eika ohizenyi in Kogi State Central Senatorial Area, was selected to represent Nigeria.
Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper and hardcopy magazine said that she emerged the overall winner among other contestants from 39 countries in the 60 Hizb with Tajwid category at the 18th Edition of the Hashemite Jordan International Qur’anic Competition for Female.

President Tinubu Flies To Qatar Tomorrow For 2-Day Diplomatic Talks

Greenbarge Reporters

February 28, 2024

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to fly to the State of Qatar from Lagos State tomorrow, February 29.
A statement today, February 28, by the President’s spokesman, Ajuri Ngelare said that Tinubu will spend two-day talking to the leadership of that country towards strengthening cooperation between the two.
He said that areas to be concentrated on including security, cultural exchange and economic development.
President Tinubu will also witness the signing of several agreements focused on boosting Nigeria’s real sector and creating value-additive investments across the fields of trade, education, culture, solid minerals, digital economy, agriculture, and gas, as well as fostering cooperation on counter-terrorism.
The President will also participate in a business and investment forum that will bring together top-level executives in both the private and public sectors of Nigeria and Qatar to advance cross-sectoral opportunities for mutually beneficial growth and development.
Tinubu, who is formally invited by the Emir of the State of Qatar, His Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, will be accompanied on the trip by senior government officials for the signing of agreements.

OCP Set To Champion Africa’s Soil Health At UN, By Sebastien Satigui

Greenbarge Reporters

February 28, 2024

This week in Nairobi, Kenya, the world’s preeminent forum on environmental issues – the UN Environment Assembly is holding its sixth biennial meeting to set the global environmental agenda.
It is expected to be attended by over 4,000 participants from 193 member states, as well as representatives from international organizations, private sector, academia and media. Its focus is the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and land degradation.
OCP, a prominent NGO, will play an outstanding role at the conference in championing the crucial role of soil health in addressing these challenges at the same time as feeding the world’s growing population.
On the theme: “Cultivating Soil Health: Africa’s Pillar of Resilience in the Triple Planetary Crisis,” OCP will co-organize an official side event with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco to Kenya. Morocco holds the critical role of Chairing the conference, demonstrating the global leadership of Morocco and OCP on these vital issues.
The side event will bring together key stakeholders to strategize on effective, inclusive and sustainable solutions to the world’s environmental challenges with a particular focus on agriculture and soil health in Africa. The discussion will prove to be an invaluable opportunity for dialogue and collaboration.
Among the distinguished speakers at the event are senior representatives from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, the UN Environment Programme, and the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation, as well as from OCP itself.
More widely, experts from OCP Group have also been engaging actively in some of the many other events taking place around the main conference, notably through contributions by OCP’s Chief Innovation Officer, Dr. Leonardus Vergutz and Karimi Thuranira, OCP Kenya’s Country Manager.
OCP is seizing these exceptional opportunities to communicate to the world’s policy-makers the key lessons it has learned from its more than 100 years of experience and innovation as the world’s leading phosphate miner and soil health and plant nutrition solutions company.
OCP is fostering accelerated action, built on collaborative partnerships between all stakeholders – including, most fundamentally, the smallholder farmers of Africa – to revitalize soil health, rehabilitate degraded lands and ecosystems, combat climate change, boost rural incomes and development, and ensure food security for future generations.
OCP has a compelling story to tell, one that is finding resonance amongst the disparate audiences in Nairobi, offering tried and tested, practical solutions to global challenges.
OCP’s messages have particular credibility and authenticity since they are based on its own outstanding record and ambitious program of sustainability: 100% self-sufficient in renewable water this year, renewable energy by 2027, green ammonia by 2032 and carbon neutral by 2040.
And they draw from its extraordinary investment in research and innovation, in the analysis of 50 million hectares of soils across Africa, the development of over 40 fertilization formulas customized to meet the specific needs of those soils, the training of over 270,000 farmers in sustainable agronomic practices to maximize their yields at the same time as conserving the environment, and facilitating the finance and ecosystems to enable farmers to access essential inputs and get their produce to market.
OCP is making a significant impact on the global stage, leveraging its invaluable experience to build the international partnerships and policies that are necessary to achieve the just agricultural transition in Africa, that will transform it into an agricultural powerhouse, feeding not only itself but the world, while simultaneously combatting climate change and preserving the environment.

I Requested For This Job, I’m Not Complaining, I Will Repair Nigeria – Present Tinubu

Greenbarge Reporters

February 28, 2024

“I requested (for) the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility. Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is light at the end of the tunnel.”
These were the words of President Bola Tinubu, when he addressed Afenifere leaders at the residence of Pa Reuben Fasoranti in Akure, Ondo State, today, February 28.
He stressed that he has come to ensure that Nigeria is reformed for greater efficiency with a particular emphasis inculcating fairness and equity in all aspects of the national life.
He emphasized his commitment to leading Nigeria towards economic and social prosperity.
”We are meeting our obligations to the international community. To lenders, we have not defaulted, and we are not going to default. We are navigating the twists and bends on the road to Nigeria’s prosperity,” the President affirmed.
President Tinubu said that his task will be to ensure fiscal and true federalism as well as the broad-based manifestation of the philosophy of “what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.”
He acknowledged the understanding and support of all Nigerians in the face of the tough but temporary economic conditions, assuring them that their patience and perseverance will not be fruitless.
“The economic challenges we have endured since assuming office are not new to me. “As the former governor of Lagos State, I faced similar calls for my resignation. But, through perseverance, Lagos emerged as the fifth largest economy in the entire continent of Africa. We must manage this moment with wisdom and grow Nigeria responsibly.
“I campaigned for this office to serve Nigeria’s interests, and I was elected. Some said I would not last in the tribunal and came up with all sorts of predictions, but even when in court, I remained focused.
“We cannot allow Nigeria’s economy to be exploited. We cannot abandon our economy to marauders. I am determined to re-engineer our finances and curb selfish interests permanently,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of Afenifere, Pa Olu Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who read the address of Pa Fasoranti, commended President Tinubu for his commitment to Nigeria’s progress and expressed support for his administration’s efforts.
“You have kept your word to return to this place where we all prayed for you, and this shows that you are a man of your word.”
Pa Fasoranti asked President Tinubu to be fair and courageous, declaring that such traits were the hallmark of the Afenifere family.
“Today, you are carrying our flag. We are noted for integrity, competence, fairness, and courage. Your performance so far has shown that you understand the full gravity of your mandate, which is to show the Nigerian people that a good government is possible.”

NLNG Insists On Integration Of Digital Technologies To Improve Operational Efficiency

Greenbarge Reporters

February 28, 2024

Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has called on players in the Nigerian energy industry to draw insights from NLNG’s ongoing integration of digital technologies to improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions, increase revenue and remain competitive.
During a panel discussion, themed: “Digital Transformation and Sustainable Energy Solutions in Upstream and Downstream Sectors” at the 7th Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, emphasised the pivotal role of digital technologies and data analytics in enhancing efficiency, productivity, safety standards and environmental sustainability across the energy value chain.
Highlighting the significance of nurturing young talent and embracing digital tools, Mr. Osobu underscored their criticality in streamlining processes, fostering innovation, and addressing sustainability challenges within the evolving energy landscape.
He said that leveraging digital solutions enables the industry to unlock unprecedented career opportunities while tackling resilience and sustainability imperatives.
Osobu lauded NLNG’s pioneering role in leveraging digital technology within the LNG sector. He cited examples such as the Smart Mobile Worker programme, which utilises smart helmets and tablets for remote support, enabling swift repairs, reducing mobilisation costs, and enhancing safety protocols.
He also highlighted NLNG’s digital twin technology that replicates plant operations using real-time data for remote planning and improved safety measures without necessitating physical site visits.
These initiatives, he said, collectively bolster NLNG’s competitive edge by enhancing operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, workforce safety, and financial performance.
Osobu reiterated NLNG’s commitment to achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2040 through strategic deployment of digital solutions. Stressing the crucial role of comprehensive training programmes in maximising the benefits of digital transformation, even as he noted the importance of upskilling employees to leverage AI, machine learning, and other digital tools while enhancing cybersecurity awareness to mitigate evolving cyber threats stemming from increased digitalisation.
He said that continuous learning through training fosters innovation, introduces cutting-edge technologies, and sustains competitiveness within the industry.
Osobu was part of a panel session featuring industry leaders on Day 1 of 2024 NIES, which followed the summit’s inauguration by President Bola Tinubu (GCFR), who was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi.

Labour Suspends Nationwide Protest, Promises To Return To Streets Fully March 13 If…

Greenbarge Reporters

February 27, 2024

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has suspended its nationwide protest after the first day of the two-day demonstration but promised to return to the streets in full gear on March 13 if the federal government fails to meet its demands.
In a communique at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting today, February 27, the NLC said: “NEC-in-session resolved as follows: to suspend street action for the second day of the Protest having achieved overwhelming success thus attained the key objectives of the 2-day protest on the first day.
“However, Nationwide action continues tomorrow with simultaneous Press Conferences across all the states of the federation by the state Councils of the Congress including the National Headquarters.
“To re-affirm and extend the 7-days ultimatum by another 7 days which now expires on the 13th day of March, 2024 within which the Government is expected to implement all the earlier agreement of the 2nd day of October, 2023 and other demands presented in our letter during today’s nationwide protest.
“To meet and decide on further lines of action if on the expiration of the 14 days Government refuses to comply with the demands as contained in the ultimatum.”
The organised labour is demanding increase in the minimum wage, provision of palliatives to help the Nigerian people deal with rising prices of goods and services, and policies to improve the economy and advance the people’s standard of living among others.

Free Fall Of Naira: CBN Boss Talks Tough: We’re Moving Towards Aggressive Regulatory Environment

Greenbarge Reporters

February 27, 2024

Against the background of the free fall of naira in recent time, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has made it clear that the apex bank is moving towards what he called “very aggressive regulatory environment.”
“Tolerance for people who will not abide by the regulations that are coming out is zero.
“People will have to comply with our regulations or face the consequences for not doing so.”
Cardoso, who spoke to newsmen today, February 27, after the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in Abuja, regretted that more than $26 billion was channelled through a cryptocurrency platform, known as Binance, in the last four years.
“In the last four years, more than $26 billion have been funnelled through Binance without trace.”
The apex bank had recently placed restriction on Binance and other cryptocurrency platforms.
The Binance exchange is a leading cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2017. It features a strong focus on altcoin trading.
Binance offers crypto-to-crypto trading in more than 350 cryptocurrencies and virtual tokens, including bitcoin, ether, litecoin, dogecoin, and its own coin, BNB.
The Naira is believed to have started improving against the US Dollar after the restrictions on Binance and other crypto platforms in Nigeria’s cyberspace.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria raised the Monetary Policy Rate, otherwise known as the benchmark interest rate at the end of the meeting today, according to finance and economic analysts.
The MPC began its two-day meeting yesterday, a few days after the National Assembly screened and okayed its new members. The meeting is the first since the new CBN Governor assumed the leadership of the apex bank.

FCT Police Win Minister’s N20 Million As They Arrest Fleeing Kidnap Kingpin

Greenbarge Reporters

February 27, 2024

Officers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested one Samaila Wakili Fafa, also known as Habu Ibrahim, the second of the two wanted kidnappers, on whom the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike had placed a N20 million bounty.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, in a statement today, February 27, said that the kidnapper was arrested on February 24, 2024, at about 7:05 pm, after the operatives, acting on credible intelligence, stormed Sardauna Forest in Toto local government of Nasarawa State.
Minister Wike had, on February 14, placed N20 million bounty on two wanted bandits: Dahiru Adamu and Abu Ibrahim that have been terrorising the people in the capital city.
The minister spoke when he met the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Igweh, during a parade of 23 criminal suspects, at the Police Command Headquarters in Garki, Abuja.
The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command had previously arrested Saidu Abdulkadir, aka Dahiru Adamu, one of the two wanted kidnappers, after the officers raided two kidnappers’ camps bordering Nasarawa and Abuja via Kuje Area Council on February 15, at about 12 am.
The police spokesperson said in a statement today that the captured kidnapper has confessed that his syndicate masterminded several kidnappings in the FCT and its environs, including the abduction of Barr. Chris Agidy, legal aid to Senator Ned Nwoko and Sunday Yahaya Zakwai, the district head of Ketti Village, both of whom were later killed.
The statement read: “The operatives of the FCT Police Command, in a continued effort against banditry in FCT and its environs, on February 24, 2024, at about 7:05 PM, acting on credible intelligence, stormed Sardauna Forest, Toto, Nasarawa State and arrested one Samaila Wakili Fafa A.K.A Habu Ibrahim, a kidnap kingpin who has been on the wanted list of the Command for a long time and bounty placed on his head by the Hon. Minister FCT.
“The suspect is one of the two kidnappers the Honorable Minister FCT placed bounty on, as the other one namely Saidu Abdulkadir A.K.A Dahiru Adamu, had earlier been arrested by the Command.
“He confessed that his syndicate masterminded and executed several kidnappings in FCT and its environs, including the abduction of Barr. Chris Agidy, the legal aid to Senator. Ned Nwoko and Mr Sunday Yahaya Zakwai, the district head of Ketti Village were later killed by them. Samaila Wakili further led police operatives to where the remains of Barr. Chris Agidy are. The remains were recovered and deposited in Gwagwalada General Hospital.”
The PPRO said that investigations are however, still ongoing and that the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Igwe has reiterated his commitment to combatting crime and criminality to ensure the safety of residents.
“While an investigation is still ongoing, the Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth C. Igweh, psc, mni, wishes to reiterate his unflinching commitment to combat crime and criminality in all its manifestations and to ensure the safety of residents. He equally urges residents to report suspicious activities through the following emergency lines; 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883; PCB: 09022222352.”

Source: The Eagle Online.

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