The Rivers state government has encouraged the International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the state to be particularly attentive to the socio-economic development of host communities.
Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike made the call Friday during the Ikike First Oil ceremony organised by Total Energies EP at Total Energies Office in Port Harcourt.
Wike who was represented by his deputy, Dr. (Mrs.) Ipalibo Harry, said, “As a state government, we will always ensure a secure working environment for the operators in the state such as Total Energies. In cognisance of the major role oil plays in the GDP of the country, we commit to the safeguard of oil installations and its workers across the state.”
He said the state would continue to remain safe for investors, stressing that the success story of Ikike First Oil Ceremony “proves the fact.”
He commended the management and staff of the Company for achieving the first oil from the Ikike Offshore Project, thereby recording a milestone with start-up of the Ikike field development project.
In his remarks, the managing director, Total Upstream Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Mike Sangster, said the Ikeki field which was launched before the Covid-19 pandemic “produces 50,000 barrel of crude oil daily,” noting that the project would “serve as a template for future projects, as it offers them an opportunity to develop Nigeria.”
He said the construction which was done in the Nigerian yard, generated three thousand direct and indirect jobs during the construction.
