Lokpobiri’s Budget Presentation Marred By Disagreements In NASS

Lokpobiri’s Budget Presentation Marred By Disagreements In NASS

Tensions again flared at the National Assembly as Senators and House Representatives members disrupted the 2025 budget defence session for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

The disruption occurred on Friday during the presentation by the Minister of Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who appeared alongside Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.

There was an outburst from the lawmakers over the absence of budget documents in advance.

Enraged, one lawmaker directly confronted the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas).

Amid the heated atmosphere, Lokpobiri apologised for the mix-up, emphasising that the delay was unintentional and assuring the committee of the ministry’s respect for the National Assembly.

During the presentation, Ekpo highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing explosions in the petroleum sector and expanding the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner energy source.

He disclosed that the Federal Government had released ₦ 222 billion to six companies to support midstream and downstream infrastructure development, aiming to ensure nationwide CNG dissemination.

The proposed 2025 budget for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources stands at ₦4.25 billion, with allocations for personnel, overhead, and capital expenditures.

The session also reviewed the ministry’s 2024 budget performance, noting achievements in oil and gas sector reforms, including efforts to promote modular refineries and enhance in-country refining capacity.