The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has criticized the prolonged abandonment of the Brass Modern Refinery project in Bayelsa State, calling it “unacceptable.”
Speaking during an inspection visit to Brass Local Government Area, Lokpobiri also assessed the Ewa-Ama road project leading to the Brass Petroleum Products Terminal (BPPT). He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalizing critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta, stressing that such projects are essential for economic growth and job creation.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor.
Accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Lokpobiri emphasized that the completion of ongoing projects in the region aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda. He assured that the government is determined to deliver 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.”
During the visit, the Minister engaged with representatives of the host community, commending their patience and peaceful conduct despite the challenges they have faced. He urged them to continue supporting the government’s efforts, assuring 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.”
A community representative welcomed the Minister’s visit, describing it as a crucial step toward restoring confidence in the government’s commitment to the region’s development.
