From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, says ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are drawing global attention, with Japan seeking stronger bilateral ties and deeper partnerships in the petroleum industry.
Lokpobiri made the disclosure after receiving a delegation from the Government of Japan in Abuja.
The delegation was led by Kobayashi Takayuki, a member of the House of Representatives and Chairperson of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan.
“Japan’s interest is clear: stronger bilateral ties and deeper partnerships with Nigeria in the petroleum resources sector,” the minister said.
According to him, discussions with the delegation focused on Nigeria’s commitment to the relationship and the shared strategic interests of both countries in energy. He highlighted what he described as “bold reforms” undertaken in the oil and gas industry under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
“These are reforms that have enhanced transparency, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and positioned Nigeria as one of the most competitive energy investment destinations in the world,” Lokpobiri stated.
He said the impact of the reforms is already being felt internationally. “The momentum is real. The partnerships are coming. And we are just getting started,” he added.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s readiness to work with international partners to drive investment, technology transfer, and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s energy sector.
