Rivers Positions as Nigeria’s Oil Hub as Governor Fubara Courts Investors
By: NaijaEnquirer Staff
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that the State has become the most attractive destination for oil and gas investments in Nigeria, promising stronger security for national energy assets and an expanded partnership with investors across the petroleum value chain.
Speaking at the Nigeria and Entrepreneurship Summit and Honours (NESH) Foundation Oil and Gas Roundtable in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba, said Rivers State’s prosperity is directly tied to the success of the nation’s hydrocarbon sector.
He emphasised that the oil and gas industry remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, noting that the sector contributes over 90% of the Federal Government’s foreign exchange earnings. Rivers State alone, he said, generates over 40% of the country’s revenue through its hydrocarbon resources, making the state a crucial pillar in the nation’s energy landscape.
“The Nigerian oil and gas sector is the lifeblood of our nation’s economy. Similarly, Rivers State is the centre of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon industry, with our resources generating over 40% of the country’s revenue,” he stated.
According to the Governor, this level of contribution places a responsibility on the State to deepen stability around energy assets and sustain investor confidence through security and collaboration with the Federal Government, host communities and industry stakeholders.
“Considering this, the survival and economic development of Rivers State are closely connected to the growth of the oil and gas industry. That is why we have focused on safeguarding the national oil and gas assets and we will maintain this commitment for as long as it is necessary.”
Governor Fubara added that his administration has continued to create a peaceful and business-friendly environment, enabling indigenous and multinational operators to operate without disruption.
“We have established and maintained a conducive, peaceful, and secure environment for companies to open and flourish in the State. We recognise and applaud the vital role that indigenous companies are playing in advancing the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.”
He further pledged support for local firms, particularly organisations like the NESH Foundation, saying that indigenous participation can only thrive when systemic challenges are addressed.
“We are ready and willing to respond positively to any administrative, policy, or legislative recommendations within our jurisdiction as a subnational State,” he assured participants while declaring the roundtable open.
Founder of the NESH Foundation, Mr. Emeka Ugwu-Ozue, praised the vision behind situating discussions in oil-producing states, noting that the aim is to transform regions like Rivers State into globally recognised energy hubs comparable to Houston in the United States.
“This roundtable takes place only in oil and gas producing states to make sure that sooner, it becomes like Houston in the United States of America,” he said.
Ugwu-Ozue applauded the improving business climate of Rivers State, calling on investors to take advantage of the renewed opportunities.
“Rivers State is back and open, safe and good for business. The oil and gas players should come and see what we have seen,” he noted.
