Edith CHUKU
The emergence of the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, and Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, as leaders of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum GECF, has been described as a significant milestone by the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board NCDMB, Mr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe.
Ogbe noted that Ekpo’s emergence as GECF president and Mshelbila as Secretary General, reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in the global gas industry.
In his congratulatory message to Ekpo who is also the Co-Chairman of the NCDMB Governing Council, Ogbe said his appointment as the lead of the renowned international organization was a well-deserved recognition of his visionary leadership, deep industry expertise, and consistent drive to position Nigeria as a global gas powerhouse.
According to him, under the minister’s stewardship, the nation has recorded significant progress in unlocking gas for prosperity through accelerated midstream development, expansion of domestic gas utilisation, and implementation of the Decade of Gas Initiative.
“The Minister’s tireless advocacy for gas as Nigeria’s transition fuel and his unwavering support for policies that enhance investor confidence and deepen value addition clearly distinguished him as a natural choice for this global role.”
He further commended the minister’s leadership and strategic diplomacy, which he said contributed to the dual success.
Ogbe described the dual victory of both officials as a proud moment for Nigerians and for all stakeholders in the gas value chain.
“The NCDMB acknowledges the Minister’s exceptional support for Nigerian Content development and appreciates the confidence and direction he continues to provide in his role as Co-Chair of the Governing Council,” Ogbe added.
He reaffirmed the Board’s loyalty and partnership under the minister’s guidance and expressed NCDMB’s commitment to advancing the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in strengthening the gas industry and driving sustainable economic growth.
Ogbe wished the minister success in his new role and assured that NCDMB would support him to realise great achievements in his tenure as President of GECF.
