The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to international oil companies (IOCs) and other operators in Nigeria’s petroleum sector: only companies ready to fast-track field development and sanction real projects will retain their place in the country’s energy landscape.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, spoke at the 2025 Practical Nigerian Content Forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, emphasizing that Nigeria cannot afford dormant licenses. He stressed that accelerating real activity is crucial to increasing crude output, boosting revenues, creating jobs, and strengthening the economy.

Lokpobiri highlighted that while improved coordination among the NUPRC, NMDPRA, and NCDMB has restored investor confidence, operators must back promises with concrete execution, including approved field-development plans, credible drilling schedules, and firm capital commitments. He declared that the era of holding idle licenses “like souvenirs” is over.

Welcoming the 2025 licensing round offering 50 oil blocks, he stressed that only technically and financially capable bidders should participate. The government is also addressing security issues, reviving stalled projects, fast-tracking approvals, and expanding evacuation infrastructure.

On local content, Lokpobiri urged stakeholders to move from discussion to commitment, highlighting that Nigeria is shifting from basic participation to global competitiveness.

Other officials at the forum reinforced Nigeria’s energy ambitions:

• Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, cited full liberalization of the midstream and downstream gas sectors, enabling projects such as AKK, OB3, Trans-Saharan, and Trans-Atlantic gas schemes.
• Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, reaffirmed the administration’s target of three million barrels per day.
• NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Ogbe, reported Nigerian content levels at 61% and announced plans to conclude Project 100 by April 2026, along with operationalizing NOGAPS parks in Odukpani and Emeyal 1.

The message was clear: Nigeria expects action, not promises, from its oil and gas operators.