By JKNewsMedia
GOVERNOR SHERIFF Oborevwori of Delta State has pledged full support to oil and gas investors, assuring stakeholders of a peaceful, secure, and collaborative operating environment.
During a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba, by top executives of Renaissance Africa Energy Company—acquirer of Shell Petroleum Development Company’s stake in the NNPC/SPDC/Total/Agip joint venture—Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding energy investments and deepening host community engagement.
He described Delta as one of the South-South’s most peaceful oil-producing states and urged oil operators to foster transparent, mutually beneficial partnerships with communities.
“Our major stay in this country is oil. So, there must be a relationship with the host community. Once you have a good relationship with them and they are carried along, you don’t have a problem,” Oborevwori stated.
Drawing from personal experience as a former community chairman during his youth, the Governor recalled his early interactions with Shell and the value of dialogue-based conflict resolution.
“I believe more in dialogue than confrontation,” he said, stressing that Renaissance Africa Energy’s leadership—comprising veterans of the Shell system—was well positioned to uphold strong community ties.
Oborevwori highlighted the state’s top ranking in national crude production, crediting the peaceful atmosphere and collaborative governance for the absence of attacks on oil infrastructure since his assumption of office.
“All our oil facilities are safe and since I came in, there has not been any record of attack. Today, we are the highest oil-producing state and I pray we will continue to be number one,” he said.
He pledged state support for the company’s operations, noting that Delta’s success is intertwined with the success of the oil and gas sector, especially in terms of tax revenue and sustainable development.
Renaissance Africa Energy’s chairman, Dr Layi Fatoma, expressed gratitude for the state’s warm reception and praised Governor Oborevwori for his consistent support to Shell during previous engagements.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr Tony Attah, said the firm’s ambition stretches beyond Nigeria, with a strategy aimed at expanding energy access across the African continent—starting from its roots in the Niger Delta.
“We want to take over Africa as it concerns energy and it is very important that we start from home,” said Attah, reiterating the company’s alignment with the state’s MORE Agenda for inclusive growth.
He called the moment a homecoming, highlighting that Renaissance Africa Energy is wholly Nigerian-owned, with deep Delta roots, and anticipates stronger support than its predecessor.
“We are confident that all the support you gave Shell—and we are being 100 per cent Nigerian and Deltans specifically—will enjoy more support than you ever gave to Shell during their time here.”
