As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to push for local content and greater investment in Nigeria’s oil sector, stakeholders believe the revival of oil exploration at OML55 will bring enormous benefits to Rivers State and the nation as a whole.
This optimism was shared by key figures, including the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, the Amanyanabo of Kula Kingdom, HRH Dr. Kroma Amabib Eleki, the Amanyanabo of Torusarama-Piri, Alh. Mujahid Dokubo Asari, and others. They spoke after the launch of crude barging and transportation to Bonny for processing.
After nearly four years of inactivity, OML55 resumed operations following its acquisition by Belema Oil. The company kickstarted crude barging on March 9, with the first shipment transported via the Ajivin Energies vessel, MT Abie H, which set sail on March 10.
Speaking at the event, NYCN President Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo praised President Tinubu for creating an environment conducive to business growth, stressing that the operation would boost both the economy and local businesses.
“The Youth Council, under my leadership, has worked closely with host communities to support OML55 and ensure that barging operations commence immediately,” he said. “This is a major step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to grow its economy and increase oil production capacity.”
Beyond economic gains, the project is already providing jobs for young people. Sukubo revealed that over 200 youths had been employed as surveillance guards, with expectations to create more than 300 additional jobs in the first phase of operations.
For the Amanyanabo of Kula Kingdom, HRH Dr. Kroma Amabib Eleki, the resumption of oil activities signals a new dawn for the region. He emphasized that the project would drive infrastructural growth and human capital development, benefiting local communities. He urged youths to embrace peace and dialogue rather than resort to violence.
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“With this production, we are entering a new phase of development. This will bring resources to our people and have a ripple effect on the entire community. It’s crucial that our youths support the company to ensure smooth operations. If there are concerns, they should be addressed through dialogue, not destruction,” he stated.
The Amanyanabo of Torusarama-Piri, Alh. Mujahid Dokubo Asari, also welcomed the project, highlighting its impact on job creation and economic activities. He pointed out that the resumption of crude barging would provide employment, stimulate trade, and revitalize the local economy.
“Now that the barging has begun, jobs will be created, businesses will thrive, and the community will experience real economic growth,” he said. “I have always spoken against oil bunkering because, while it may offer short-term benefits, it brings long-term devastation to our environment and economy. We must not destroy our future for temporary gains.”
The Amayanabo of Offoinama, Offo XIII, HRH King Simbia Sukubo, reinforced the call for government support, urging local communities to back the project in the interest of future generations. “Our youths should stand with the company to ensure greater production, which will ultimately benefit our children. The Federal and State Governments must also support Belema Oil to maximize revenue growth,” he advised.
Jona Joshua, Chairman of the Kula Community Development Committee, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the project’s transformative potential. “This initiative will change the lives of our people and positively impact Nigeria. Today, we are witnessing an opportunity that brings hope to our youths. What they need is employment, not political manipulation for violence. Leaders should focus on creating jobs, just like what is happening here.”
With OML55 back in operation, stakeholders are optimistic that collaboration between the government, companies, and host communities will ensure long-term benefits, stability, and economic prosperity for Rivers State and beyond.
