By Olakunle Oke
At the opening ceremony of the 43rd Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has called for an inclusive energy mix.
This is as the Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to driving energy security and diversification through strategic investments in oil, gas, and renewable energy.
Speaking at the event held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, the Governor lauded NAPE for its resilience and leadership in advancing Nigeria’s petroleum exploration industry over the past four decades.
He described the association’s 43rd anniversary as “a testament to its unwavering commitment and purposeful leadership.”
Highlighting the pivotal role of the oil and gas sector in Nigeria’s economic history, Aiyedatiwa noted that proceeds from the industry had financed major national infrastructure and development projects.
However, he emphasized the urgent need to embrace an energy mix that includes renewables, in line with global sustainability goals.
“The oil and gas industry must evolve into an inclusive energy space,” he stated. “Diversifying Nigeria’s revenue base through support for other sectors will help us reduce our overdependence on oil.”
Speaking on Ondo State’s contributions to national energy output, Aiyedatiwa revealed that the state ranks as the fifth-largest producer of hydrocarbons in the country, contributing about 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily.
He also underscored the state’s vast untapped bitumen reserves, calling it a frontier for future exploration.
In a major announcement, the Governor disclosed that Ondo State recently signed an agreement with Backbone Infrastructure Limited for the construction of a 500,000-barrel-per-day refinery in Ilaje Local Government Area.
The refinery, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) involving the state government, Backbone, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), aims to enhance domestic refining capacity and reduce fuel import dependence.
“There are numerous energy projects currently underway in Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa said, pledging continuous collaboration with NAPE and industry stakeholders to foster oil and gas development.
He assured companies operating in the state of government support and a conducive environment, while emphasizing the importance of host community participation.
The Governor congratulated NAPE on its 43rd anniversary and commended its leadership for building a strong community of professional explorationists and geoscientists.
He also extended his best wishes to the incoming NAPE President, Mrs. Olajumoke Ajayi, expressing confidence in her ability to steer the association toward greater innovation and excellence.
“As you deliberate during this conference, I wish you an insightful and successful session that will shape Nigeria’s energy policy for sustainable development,” he concluded.