We Are Making New Investments in Nigeria, ExxonMobil Debunks Exit News
The Managing Director of ExxonMobil Nigeria, Shane Harris, has declared that the oil major is not leaving Nigeria, contrary to claims in some quarters following the company’s proposed divestment of a 100 percent interest in Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to Seplat Energy Offshore Limited.
Harris made this clarification during a meeting with the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, in Abuja. He emphasised that ExxonMobil is currently making new investments in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Petroleum Minister, Nneamaka Okafor, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.
“During the meeting, Harris hinted at significant new investments that ExxonMobil is injecting into Nigeria’s energy sector,” the statement read. “He expressed confidence in the renewed relationship between ExxonMobil and the Nigerian government, assuring the government that the oil giant is not planning to leave Nigeria.”
Harris was quoted as saying, “We are excited about the prospects these new investments bring. Our partnership with the Nigerian government is crucial for sustainable growth, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration as we have no plan to leave.”
Senator Lokpobiri reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing production and fostering a conducive environment for investors in the energy sector. He highlighted the ministry’s focus on creating collaborations and sharing innovative ideas with international oil companies.
“We are dedicated to ramping up production and ensuring a supportive environment for all investors by doing everything possible to maintain investor confidence in our country,” Lokpobiri stated.
The minister also commended the ExxonMobil team for their commitment to the Nigerian oil and gas sector, noting that it aligned perfectly with the nation’s objectives.
“ExxonMobil’s planned investments are commendable and greatly appreciated. This renewed relationship is a testament to the mutual goals we share for the future of our energy sector,” he added.
The discussions between the parties also touched on the ministry’s support for international and independent oil operators. Lokpobiri assured Harris of the government’s support, emphasizing the importance of creating a thriving environment for all stakeholders.
“We fully support ExxonMobil and other IOCs, just as we do with independent operators. Our collaborative efforts are key to the sustainable growth of our energy sector,” Lokpobiri concluded.
Recall that in January, Shell, the oldest oil company operating in Nigeria, disclosed that it was selling its onshore operation in Nigeria. This sparked mixed reactions and was misinterpreted by some that the company, which started exploration operations in Nigeria in 1930, was leaving the country.
