Akwa Ibom Seeks License To Produce Aviation Fuel

Akwa Ibom State is seeking a license from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to build a modular refinery that will produce aviation fuel at the Victor Attah International Airport.

Governor Udom Emmanuel made the request at the weekend when he played host to the management of NNPC Upstream, led by Group Executive Director, Adokiye Tombomieye, at Government House, Uyo.

He said: “We are looking at all the gateways that can promote tourism and development and we need the support of NNPC, Product Marketers. Right now we are building the smartest terminal building in Africa that will process one million passengers every year.

“We need a depot there for aviation fuel. We might not wait for a big refinery, just license for a modular refinery. We don’t have a single presence of the oil and gas in Akwa Ibom’’.

Emmanuel also appealed to NNPC to relocate its corporate headquarters to occupy a smart office accommodation at the Dakkada Towers in the State, adding that “four floors are there for the entire group, DPR, NAPIMS, NNPC”.

The governor commended the ongoing reforms of the NNPC, saying its recent restructuring will transform the corporation into a commercially viable company that will provide reliable products’ supplies within the country.

While appreciating the management of NNPC Upstream, for choosing Akwa Ibom State as venue for its 3- day retreat, he urged them to brace up for the task ahead of the new responsibilities.

Emmanuel commended the management of NNPC for their transparency in publishing financial reports of the Corporation which he said has been unprecedented in recent times, urging them not to relent in their commitment to bridge existing gaps thereby restoring the confidence of the people.

“Congratulations for the restructuring of NNPC, the boldness to do this will give you opportunities.

“Some of you that are group heads have written your names in plaque because once you restructure and put the structure, strategy, the system there will enable that structure to run, history will never forget any of you, but unfortunately, something about restructuring, if you get it wrong history will crucify you.

“So it is something that no matter how you are pushed by government or politicians you have to get focused on it as a professional because of responsibilities and the expectations from the people.

“This is the first badge of management in NNPC that we have seen a financial report and it’s to your credit and it is timely too.

“I think the first audit of NNPC is done by your regime. So if you began a good work, take it to the end”.