The federal government has launched a new oil and gas licensing round, inviting bids for as many as 12 onshore and offshore blocks and promising transparency in the bidding process. This launch was unveiled against the backdrop off the ongoing Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, where the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) announced the start of the 2024 Licensing Round.
Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo has called for increased collaboration between public and private sector investors in order for the country to achieve its energy goals.
The minister stated this during the official unveiling of the Gazettes on National Energy Policy and National Energy Master Plan by the Energy Commission of Nigeria at the PTDF auditorium, Abuja on Wednesday, underscoring the task of creating a Nigeria where citizens have access to cheap, unlimited energy is one that must not be left solely for the government.
Ekpo said: “In order to achieve our energy goals, I implore our respected partners in the public and private sectors to collaborate with one another. To face the difficulties that lie ahead, let’s leverage the power of cooperation, creativity, and technology,” while describing the road to a sustainable energy future as a marathon and not a sprint, saying it calls for unyielding resolve, innovative leadership, and unwavering dedication.
According to him, energy plays a critical role in promoting social development, accelerating economic progress, and protecting the environment.
“Future generations will be greatly impacted by the choices that we make today. We can create a Nigeria where everyone has access to cheap, unlimited energy by working together,” he added.
Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Ms. Olu Verheijen who also spoke at the unveiling of the Gazettes said the documents would be presented to the public for further consultation.
