House Seeks Continuous Review of PIA to Meet Global, Local Needs

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Hon. Alhassan Doguwa, yesterday stressed the need for continuous scrutiny and refinement of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

 Doguwa noted that this is to ensure it is attuned to the evolving dynamics of the global energy landscape and the specificities of the Nigerian context.

The lawmaker while speaking at an inaugural meeting yesterday said that the  committee is charged with a mandate of utmost significance which is to meticulously review and amend the Act, ensuring it is robust, forward-looking, and reflective of best practices.

“The true measure of legislation is not in its passage but in its execution and adaptability. The enactment of the PIA by the 9th Assembly was a watershed moment, signalling a new dawn of reform intended to revitalise an industry that is the lifeblood of our economy,” he said.

He called for the collaboration of all stakeholders within the industry to drive the development of the sector.

  “The challenges before us are indeed formidable, but they are not insurmountable. With a shared vision and a synergy of efforts, we can and will institute transformative changes that will resonate through the industry and across the fabric of our society,” he said.

Realising the interdependent nature of the job, he noted that the group had proactively engaged with the leadership and administrative officers of allied committees, including those focusing on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and Petroleum Resources (Midstream), and Gas.

“This strategic collaboration is the cornerstone upon which we will build a cohesive and comprehensive approach to the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the oil and gas sectors,” he added.