Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has implored investors to explore the hydrocarbon resources in Ondo State.
Aiyedatiwa assured investors of an enabling environment and protection of investments in the state.
He spoke on Monday at the 44th Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists, NAPE, held at Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos.
He advocated the need for increased exploration and production, assuring prospective investors a secure business environment.
The governor, who disclosed that Ondo State ranks fifth among Nigeria’s oil-producing states, said his administration is commitment to attracting strategic investments, strengthening institutional collaboration and building mutually beneficial partnerships with reputable industry operators.
According to him, increased production, energy security, economic diversification and industrial competitiveness need renewed commitment to exploration, improved geological intelligence and technological adaptability.
He urged investors to prioritise responsible upstream operations, and insisted that the benefits of resource development must translate into employment, economic opportunities and improved living standards.
He added: “The true value of natural resources must transcend production statistics, export earnings and government revenues.
“The ultimate justification for resource exploitation lies in its capacity to transform lives, empower communities and create enduring shared prosperity.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa advised that Nigeria must move beyond being predominantly a resource-producing nation and establish itself as a centre of technical expertise, scientific innovation, technological advancement and industrial value creation.
He called for the integration of universities, research institutions, professional associations such as NAPE and indigenous service companies into emerging opportunities in the energy sector.
He sought stronger industry-academia collaboration, knowledge transfer and applied research to equip young Nigerian geoscientists, engineers and other technical professionals with relevant expertise.
He emphasised that the shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems must accommodate the developmental circumstances, energy needs and economic aspirations of emerging economies such as Nigeria.
