Lokpobiri Urges Niger Delta to Back Tinubu’s Development Agenda

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has appealed to the people of the Niger Delta to sustain their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that his administration is driving tangible reforms and development under the Renewed Hope agenda.

Speaking as Chairman of the occasion at the 60th birthday celebration and book launch of His Royal Majesty, King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, Lokpobiri highlighted the President’s commitment to the region through the full operationalisation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

According to the Minister, the PIA grants oil-producing host communities 3% of oil companies’ operational expenses via the Host Community Development Trust Fund.

“This administration is not just making promises, it is delivering. The Host Community Trust Fund is a clear demonstration that President Tinubu is deeply committed to the development of the Niger Delta. Our people must not take this opportunity for granted,” Lokpobiri said.

He cautioned against sabotage of oil facilities and disputes over fund management, stressing that such actions would harm the communities themselves.

“When you blow up the pipelines, you’re not just sabotaging the Federal Government; you are also blowing up your own 3% share of revenue and destroying your environment. That is not activism, it’s economic suicide,” he warned.

Lokpobiri further pointed to other initiatives of the Tinubu administration, including the establishment of the Federal University of Environmental Science and the accelerated completion of abandoned projects, as proof of a deliberate plan to uplift the Niger Delta and integrate it into the national development strategy.

He urged stakeholders to take the message back to their communities, emphasizing the shared responsibility of protecting national assets, safeguarding the environment, and supporting government efforts.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, who was also in attendance, thanked President Tinubu for his developmental efforts and commended Lokpobiri for ensuring that what is due to Niger Deltans reaches them.

“I thank President Tinubu for his support to us, and I commend our brother, Sen. Lokpobiri, for ensuring that President Tinubu’s developmental drives get to us,” Governor Diri said. “When there will be an amendment of the PIA, the State should be included in the management of the 3% Host Community Funds because you need the State Government to help manage the people.”

Lokpobiri reiterated that peace, security, and accountability remain non-negotiable pillars for sustainable growth in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria. He also commended members of NDA Course 38, who joined in celebrating King Dakolo’s milestone.