Law Mefor, Anambra Commissioner for Information and value reformation, urged the federal government to ensure the state fully benefits from the nation’s oil and gas-related programmes and initiatives. He said it was unfortunate that as an oil-producing state, Anambra was yet to be fully integrated into the nation’s oil and gas master plan.
The commissioner said this in Awka on Thursday while declaring open a one-day workshop on Nigerian Content capacity building for media stakeholders. The event was organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). He said Nigeria has the human capacity to manage its oil and gas resources effectively. Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Ogbe, said the workshop was part of the federal government’s inclusivity drive for the industry.
Mr Ogbe, represented by Omomehin Ajimijaye, director of planning, research and statistics, urged the media to properly educate communities on the importance of participating in the board’s initiatives. The General Manager, Corporate Communications, NCDMB, Obinna Ezeobi, urged the media to raise awareness about opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He also urged them to hold industry operators accountable, particularly regarding compliance with local content requirements.
Mr Ezeobi advocated for better reporting on Nigerian content issues to enable more locals and businesses in Anambra to participate actively in the oil and gas value chain. He said the media has a critical role in advancing the implementation of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act. He said they can do this by informing the public about industry opportunities, explaining government interventions and monitoring compliance with relevant laws.
He urged journalists to use their positions as agenda-setters and gatekeepers to draw attention to issues affecting the industry and highlight opportunities for Nigerian businesses and professionals.