Jonathan, Diri, Ogbuku Back Azikel Refinery, Hail Industrialisation Drive

Former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, have commended the Azikel Group for its commitment to industrial development in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta.

Hotnews reports that the leaders gave the commendation during an inspection of the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and other facilities at the Azikel Refinery in Obunagha, Yenagoa Local Government Area.

Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, Governor Diri described the refinery as a major milestone in the state’s industrialisation drive, noting that the project would create jobs, attract investments and open new economic opportunities for Bayelsans.

Governor Diri congratulated the President of Azikel Group, Dr. Azibapu Eruani, on the arrival of the CDU, which he described as a critical component of the refinery.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, including improved road infrastructure to industrial sites.

Dr. Dame Patience Jonathan also praised the state government for supporting the project, stressing that investments capable of creating wealth and employment were essential to reducing dependence on government salaries and allocations.

Dr. Ogbuku said the refinery would have a significant multiplier effect on the state’s economy through job creation, increased business activities and improved investor confidence.

He urged young Bayelsans to acquire relevant skills and position themselves to benefit from the opportunities the project would create.

In his remarks, Eruani said the $1 billion refinery, with a capacity of 25,000 barrels per day, had reached a critical stage following the arrival of the CDU from South Korea. He said the facility would produce petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, LPG, naphtha and heavy fuel oil.

Other dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, and former NNPC Chief Operating Officer, Refinery and Petrochemical, Mr. Mustapha Yakubu, also commended the project and called for sustained support for its completion.

~ Hot News Reporters
Wednesday, 12, August, 2026