Shell To Resume Operations In Imo
By Fredrick Wright
International oil giant, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) is set to resume operations in Imo State, after years of exiting the state as a result of insecurity.
Shell had temporarily halted the construction of a multi- billion naira Assa North/ Ohaji South Gas Development Project sited in Imo State, which was started in 2019, due to the growing incidents of insecurity in the area.
The project, when completed, has a potential capacity for 300 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, one of the largest domestic gas projects in Nigeria.
Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma disclosed this after a meeting with the SPDC Chairman and Managing director, Mr. Osagie Okunbor in Abuja.
Okunbor attended the meeting with other key officers of Shell.
Commenting on the outcome of the meeting Uzodimma said: “One of the observations of my administration upon resumption of office, was the fact that Shell had been off-site and suspended operations in Imo State as a result of insecurity, vandalism and illegal oil bunkering within the region.
“Having restored peace and tranquility along the coastline, today, I met yet again with the Managing Director and Chairman of the oil giant, Osagie Okunbor and I am elated at his assurance and confirmation of the company’s resolve to resume exploration in the state.
“This development is expected to create a ripple effect and economic boost for the growth of local contents within the region and the state at large while contributing to more developmental projects from the government.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Imo State, I express my profound gratitude to the management and staff of SPDC. Rest assured, that the state government is committed to any partnership that would bring about the development of the state.”
