By Hosea Parah, Abuja

In a significant development aimed at revitalizing Port Harcourt’s historical status as Nigeria’s energy capital, the Rivers State Government has pledged its full support for the Society of Energy Editors (SEE) in their initiative to designate the city as Nigeria’s Premier Energy City. This initiative also seeks to reinstate Port Harcourt into the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP).

The announcement was made during a high-profile courtesy visit by SEE leadership to the Rivers State Government House, where both parties expressed a shared vision to restore and enhance the state’s pivotal role in Africa’s energy landscape.

Chairman of SEE, Alhaji Yakubu Lawal, underscored the importance of Port Harcourt, stating, “Almost 70 years after Nigeria’s first oil discovery in nearby Oloibiri, Port Harcourt remains the beating heart of the country’s energy industry.” He emphasized the need for formal recognition of the city’s contributions, advocating for its inclusion in the WECP to boost its global recognition.

The Society of Energy Editors, which boasts a diverse membership that includes energy journalists from Nigeria, the USA, UK, Ireland, South Africa, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, aims to leverage its extensive media network to reshape Port Harcourt’s energy narrative.

Key components of SEE’s proposal include:
– An official designation ceremony slated for August 2025, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of Nigeria’s oil industry.
– Submission of a reinstatement application to the WECP in the third quarter of 2025.
– Hosting the inaugural Port Harcourt Energy Summit in the fourth quarter of 2025.

His Excellency Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, the Administrator of Rivers State, hailed the initiative as “visionary and timely.” He assured SEE of the state government’s commitment to the project, stating, “Port Harcourt is more than just a city – it is the cradle of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon revolution.”

Vice Admiral Ibas highlighted several strategic benefits of WECP membership, including enhancing Port Harcourt’s international profile, attracting foreign direct investment, creating energy-focused jobs, and driving economic diversification.

In a show of commitment, he pledged that the Rivers State Government would provide logistical support for the designation ceremony, facilitate strategic engagements with private sector stakeholders, and collaborate closely with SEE to expedite the WECP reinstatement process.

The event, attended by senior government officials, members of SEE, and members of the press, marks the beginning of a transformative journey for Port Harcourt and the wider Niger Delta region. Ibas called on stakeholders and investors to support the initiative, describing it as “a historic opportunity to redefine Rivers State’s future and unlock the immense socio-economic potential of Nigeria’s energy heartland.”