The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Energy Services Limited (NNPC-EnServe) has lauded the Edo State Government for creating a conducive environment for businesses to flourish. This commendation came during preparations for the Edo 2024 Mega Trade Fair, slated to hold from August 16 to August 25, 2024, at the Garrick Memorial Field, Ekenwan Road, Benin City.
During a courtesy visit by the Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade, and Cooperatives to NNPC-EnServe, the Managing Director, Sophia A. Mbakwe, represented by Mrs. Matina Atuche (Executive Director, Business Services), assured the government of the company’s collaboration in ensuring the fair’s success.
A Platform for Collaboration and Growth
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Patrick Irria Uanseru, the Commissioner for Business, Trade, and Cooperatives, emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships to stimulate economic activity.
“The trade fair, with the theme ‘Promoting Trade, Creating Wealth, Through Linkages,’ is designed to connect businesses across sectors, including gas, solid minerals, agriculture, and technology. It represents the government’s commitment to encouraging economic interactions among large, medium, and small-scale enterprises,” Uanseru said.
While presenting a formal letter of partnership to NNPC-EnServe, Uanseru highlighted the government’s vision of making the trade fair a truly mega event. He appealed to the company to minimize bureaucratic delays in their response, as the Ministry holds high expectations for their support.
NNPC-EnServe’s Commitment to Progress
In response, Mrs. Matina Atuche reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the initiative.
“Edo State has been a gracious host, and we value our relationship with the local communities. This collaboration aligns with our shared goals of fostering economic growth and development. While we are a service company rather than a production entity, we are committed to contributing our ‘widow’s mite’ to this significant project,” Atuche said.
She also acknowledged the state’s hospitality and emphasized that the success of Edo State directly impacts NNPC-EnServe positively.
Strategic Realignment Under PIA
NNPC-EnServe’s recent restructuring under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was also highlighted. The integration of Integrated Data Services Limited (IDSL), NNPC Oilfield Services Ltd, and Frontier Exploration Services into NNPC-EnServe demonstrates the company’s commitment to evolving with the industry’s needs.
The Commissioner’s team, which included the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. B. J Igbinobaro, and retired Permanent Secretary Mr. Joel Edionwe, expressed gratitude for the company’s willingness to collaborate.
Moving Forward Together
In closing, Mr. John Lehu, Lead Corporate Communications, expressed optimism about the forthcoming trade fair, emphasizing the harmony between the company and its host community.
“We are pleased to support this initiative. Our operations run smoothly, thanks to the peaceful environment fostered by our host community. This fair will further strengthen Edo State’s economic landscape, and we are proud to contribute to its success,” Lehu said.
The Edo 2024 Mega Trade Fair promises to be a landmark event, uniting stakeholders from diverse industries to forge connections, stimulate trade, and catalyze wealth creation in the region.
