By Gold Jeremiah
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has stated that Nigeria’s ongoing reforms in the oil and gas sector are attracting increased international attention, following renewed engagement with the Government of Japan on energy cooperation.
Lokpobiri made this known via his official X handle after receiving a high-level Japanese delegation led by Mr. Kobayashi Takayuki, a Member of Japan’s House of Representatives and Chairperson of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party.
According to the minister, the visit underscores Japan’s growing interest in strengthening bilateral relations and expanding strategic partnerships with Nigeria in the petroleum resources sector.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri
“Our reforms are drawing global attention and the world is responding. I had the honour of receiving a distinguished delegation from the Government of Japan, led by Kobayashi Takayuki, Member of the House of Representatives and Chairperson of the Policy Research Council of the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan,” Lokpobiri stated.
He explained that discussions during the visit focused on deepening collaboration between both countries and reinforcing shared interests in energy development.
“Japan’s interest is clear: stronger bilateral ties and deeper partnerships with Nigeria in the petroleum resources sector,” he added.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to sustaining oil and gas sector reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, noting that the measures are already improving Nigeria’s global investment outlook.
“In our discussions, I reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to this relationship, highlighting our shared strategic interests in energy and the bold reforms undertaken in our oil and gas industry under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” he said.
Lokpobiri further noted that the reforms have strengthened transparency, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and boosted Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global energy market.
“These are reforms that have enhanced transparency, strengthened regulatory frameworks, and positioned Nigeria as one of the most competitive energy investment destinations in the world,” he stated.
Expressing optimism, the minister said the growing momentum in international engagements would translate into tangible investments and greater development within the petroleum sector.
“The momentum is real. The partnerships are coming. And we are just getting started,” he added.
