The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has applauded the recent reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, describing them as a timely step towards strengthening industry regulation and improving national economic outcomes.
The National Chairman of PANDEF, Ambassador Godknows Igali, stated this while briefing newsmen in Abuja.
Ambassador Igali expressed deep appreciation over the restructuring within the sector’s regulatory agencies, noting that the move has generated renewed optimism across the Niger Delta.
According to him, PANDEF particularly applauded the appointment of Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan as Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
He described Eyesan, a former Executive Vice President (Upstream) at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), as an outstanding professional whose leadership and experience make her “a square peg in a square hole.”
According to Ambassador Igali, her track record in the petroleum industry reflects “diligence, excellence and impact.
“Her emergence is a source of pride for Nigerians, especially women in the industry” Amb Igali stated.
The National Chairman of PANDEF also commended the choice of Mr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed as Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, noting that both appointments signal a strategic shift poised to advance the sector.
“We are greatly impressed with these changes, and hope that the holistic reforms will be sustained to ensure that the oil and gas industry continues to play its paramount role in Nigeria’s economy, while positioning the country as a major player in the global energy space,” he stated.
According to him, the forum, however, urged the Federal Government to further deepen inclusion by bringing more qualified Niger Delta professionals into strategic leadership positions across the NNPC and the wider industry.
Ambassador Igali also called for intensified efforts in environmental remediation across the region, emphasising that intervention should extend beyond the Ogoni project.
He recommended dedicated annual budgetary provisions to address long-standing environmental challenges affecting host communities.
On modular refineries, Ambassador Igali reminded the government of its earlier commitment in 2018 to establish a Modular Refinery Development Fund—an initiative he says will create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and support host communities in the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
“As the apex body representing host communities, PANDEF remains committed to working with Federal and State Governments to ensure a conducive environment for the oil and gas sector to thrive,” he added.
