The Delta State Government has reiterated its commitment to combating restiveness in the oil and gas industry by creating and sustaining a conducive environment for the growth of the sector in the state.
The State Commissioner for oil and gas, Mr. Peter Uviejitobor stated this in his office while reacting to allegations of an oil spill in parts of the state.
He said his ministry was saddled with the responsibility of resolving conflicts and crises between communities and oil companies with a view to ensuring a peaceful environment for business to thrive.
The Delta State Commissioner, who noted with satisfaction that Delta remained the number one oil-producing state in the country, said the state government was intensifying efforts to maintain the leading position by ensuring that priority was accorded to host communities of oil and gas installations in the state.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Frank Omoko, who hinted that a lot was being done to encourage private sector investment in modular refineries, said the privately owned modular refinery in Kwale had commenced operation on a small scale with diesel production.
He pointed out that the Delta State government had received two more proposals for the establishment of a modular refinery in Ozoro- Oleh axis and Koko, and assured that government would continue to provide adequate security for smooth operation of the oil and gas industry.