Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ibas has named Port Harcourt, Nigeria’s leading energy city, promising fresh reforms to boost investment, renewables, and security in the sector.
The declaration was made on Tuesday, August 26, at Government House by the State Administrator, through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika.
According to Ibas, Port Harcourt represents both the nation’s energy heritage and a foundation for future growth. He described the city as the “cradle of Nigeria’s industrial vision” and projected that it would evolve into the “energy capital of Africa.”
Outlining the government’s vision, he said efforts would extend beyond the oil and gas industry into renewable resources such as solar, wind, hydro, and gas-based power.
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He also announced plans to build a regional energy hub with world-class infrastructure, revive Port Harcourt’s membership in the World Energy Cities Programme, and establish an annual International Energy Conference and Exhibition.
The Chairman of the Society of Energy Editors, Malam Yakubu Lawal, praised the initiative, noting that Port Harcourt’s history as a centre of energy activity provides a solid base for a stronger future.
He revealed that the Society intends to sign a memorandum of understanding with the state to attract foreign investors and institutionalise a global energy conference.
Delivering a keynote address, the Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, recalled that Port Harcourt’s central role in the sector dates back to the 1956 oil discovery.
While acknowledging the city’s economic contributions, he cautioned about the environmental consequences faced by host communities.
He also called for a pivot towards cleaner energy sources, greater collaboration among stakeholders, and reforms in education to prepare young Nigerians for emerging opportunities in the energy industry.
