Federal Government Pledges to Revive Abandoned Atlantic Refinery Project in Bayelsa
In a significant move for the Niger Delta region, Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, announced the federal government’s commitment to reviving the long-abandoned Atlantic refinery project located in Brass, Bayelsa State. This announcement came during a recent inspection of Ewa-ama Road, a critical route leading to the Brass Petroleum Products Terminal (BPPT).
During his visit, Lokpobiri expressed his disappointment over the project’s neglect, stating, “I engaged with key stakeholders of the host community and conveyed my deep dismay over the abandonment of the Atlantic Refinery project in Brass Local Government Area.” He emphasized the federal government’s dedication to completing essential infrastructure projects that stimulate economic growth and enhance the livelihoods of residents.
The minister assured the community that a thorough review of the project would take place to ensure its eventual completion. He commended the residents of Brass for their peaceful demeanour amid the challenges posed by the refinery’s abandonment and urged them to maintain this stability. “Peace is vital for attracting further investments and development to the region,” he stated.
Lokpobiri highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to fulfil its developmental mandate, emphasizing that the government is focused on driving development and delivering key projects that will benefit the people of the Niger Delta.
This revitalization effort follows recent positive developments in the Nigerian oil sector. On November 26, 2024, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited announced that the Port Harcourt refinery has commenced crude oil processing. Furthermore, in December, NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari revealed that the Warri refinery had started production, although rehabilitation efforts are still ongoing.
