Reuben Abati, the co-host of The Morning Show on ARISE Television, has taken a sharp stance against Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, regarding his recent statements about Nigeria’s petroleum sector. During a live television broadcast, Abati criticized Lokpobiri for making claims that seem disconnected from the realities of the country’s fuel situation, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges in the sector.
Lokpobiri, while speaking at a public event in Abuja, declared that Nigeria is expecting a massive $50 billion investment in its oil sector before the end of the year. As per Daily Trust, he further asserted that Nigeria’s oil production could rise to an ambitious 2.7 million barrels per day (bpd), painting a bright picture of the nation’s energy future. According to Lokpobiri, this optimistic outlook is the result of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies, which he claimed had revitalized the oil sector, attracting both local and foreign investors.
However, Abati was not convinced. On The Morning Show, he openly questioned the credibility of Lokpobiri’s comments, accusing him of making grand statements without any solid backing. Abati bluntly remarked, “He does not know what he is talking about. He constantly puts his foot in his mouth.” He further suggested that Lokpobiri should refrain from making such bold claims if he has nothing of substance to contribute, particularly when the situation on the ground seems to contradict these lofty promises.
Abati’s skepticism also stemmed from Lokpobiri’s earlier comments, where he claimed that Nigeria’s refineries would soon be operational—an assertion that has yet to materialize. Abati expressed disbelief over Lokpobiri’s forecast of $50 billion in investments within a short time frame, sarcastically referencing Tinubu as a “miracle worker” in light of the minister’s claims.
This controversy follows Lokpobiri’s earlier acknowledgment of the role played by his counterpart, Nyesom Wike, in securing his position in Tinubu’s cabinet. At an event in Port Harcourt, Lokpobiri revealed that Wike was instrumental in his appointment, adding another layer of political connection to the unfolding drama.
Abati’s critique highlights the growing concerns surrounding the Nigerian oil sector, where public promises and optimistic projections often fail to match the reality of fuel shortages and underproduction. The disconnect between Lokpobiri’s statements and the lived experience of ordinary Nigerians, grappling with fuel scarcity and economic challenges, raises questions about the direction of the country’s energy policy and the credibility of its leadership.