·Sylva Pushes for zero Disruption in Production
Nigeria’s crude oil production is poised for an increased output of
35,000 barrels per day as a protracted dispute that soiled relations
amongst Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Belema Oil and host
communities within the precinct of OML 25 in Kula Kingdom of Aku-ku Toru
Local Government Area of Rivers State has come to an amicable end.
A release by NNPC Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Mr. Ndu
Ughamadu, stated that the crisis was laid to rest following a
rapprochement brokered by the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian
National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele Kyari, offering the
promise to open the way for resumption of production activities on the
field soon.
Speaking at the end of the peace parley, symbolized with the signing of
a dispute resolution agreement among the erstwhile feuding parties, the
NNPC GMD described the event as vital in ensuring restoration of
normalcy, especially in the communities whose normal ways of life have
been disrupted by the dispute in the last two years.
Kyari said the economic implication of the peace agreement was that
production within the OML 25 and adjoining assets which have daily
production output of over 35,000 barrels would resume and add value for
the community, the investors and the country at large.
The GMD acknowledged the effort of the Honourable Minister of State for
Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, in ensuring the lasting
settlement of the dispute, noting that the position of the HMSPR was in
tandem with the aspiration of President Mohammadu Buhari in ensuring
harmonious relations between host communities and oil industry
operators.
Kyari also took time out to recognize the collaborative efforts of the
President of Belema Oil Producing Limited, Mr. Jack Rich Tein and the
Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, in
bringing to a closure the two year-old dispute.
Responding, Okunbor thanked the Chief Sylva and Mallam Kyari for their
exemplary efforts and demonstration of deep commitment in resolving the
disputes with Belema Oil and the communities.
He said Shell was looking forward to a quick return to the oil platform
ahead of planned resumption of production activities in OML 25.
On his part, Mr. Jack Rich Tein, said the resolution would ensure
restoration of production which would ultimately benefit the communities
and all stakeholders in this regard.
He pledged to abide by the terms of dispute resolution agreement, saying
the Belema Oil would always support any initiative designed to bring
peace and development for the communities and the country.
Commending the stakeholders for successful settlement of the issues,
Chief Sylva noted that his mandate as HMSPR was to ensure a zero
disruption in crude oil and gas production across all assets.
He said the Petroleum Ministry under his watch had resolved to settle
all pending legacy issues capable of igniting loss or disruption in
production, adding that every drop of oil produced in Nigeria must get
to the desired destination to create the much needed value for all
stakeholders.