TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigerians need to be reminded of the progress of the ministry of petroleum resources and the oil sector, before the 2019 elections.

Speaking at the ministry of petroleum resources staff awards on Thursday, Buhari said Nigerians must be reminded of the challenges and milestone recorded by his government.

The president, who was represented by Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government of the federation, said the ministry weathered the slump in crude oil prices, issues with JVs, and backlog of subsidy payments.

He said the ministry rolled out seven big wins to stabilise the oil and gas sector of the country, which he added has yielded results.

“You will all agree with me that the public presentation of the key achievements of the ministry could not have come at a better time than this,” Buhari said.

“The country is in an election period, and it is important to remind the people of the challenges and the milestones that have been covered in the journey so far.

“As you are aware, a lot is still required to boost investment and make the oil and gas sector in Nigeria an investment destination.”

Reviewing the achievements of the ministry in the oil sector, the president said Nigeria’s influence on the international level is gladdening.

“It is gladdening to note Nigeria’s leading role in OPEC, Gas Exporting Countries Forum, and the reforms in the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), the first Nigeria International Petroleum Summit in February,” Buhari said.

“I am also happy that the agencies under the ministry have also recorded tremendous achievements in the execution of their various mandates. It is pertinent to mention that within the period under review, there were sustainable efforts in petroleum products availability and supply throughout the country.

“These and several other initiatives not mentioned will continue to be sustained to make life easy for every Nigerian.

“I wish to congratulate the ministry ably led by the minister of state and the officers of the ministry and its agencies that will be receiving awards today.

“Governmnet will continue to reward excellence in the public service, I, therefore, urge you to continue to put in your best. You should consider this honour as just the begining as you continue to serve your country diligently.”