Tensions erupted at the National Assembly on Friday as Senators and House Representatives disrupted the 2025 budget defence session for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.
The uproar occurred during the presentation by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of Petroleum (Oil), alongside Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas).
Lawmakers expressed outrage over the absence of budget documents ahead of the session, leading one member to confront Minister Ekpo directly.
In response, Lokpobiri apologised for the oversight, assuring the committee that the delay was unintentional and reaffirming the ministry’s respect for the National Assembly.
Ekpo highlighted the government’s efforts to tackle explosions in the petroleum sector and promote Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner energy alternative. He noted ₦222 billion had been released to six companies to enhance midstream and downstream infrastructure, enabling nationwide CNG distribution.
The ministry’s proposed 2025 budget stands at ₦4.25 billion, covering personnel, overhead, and capital expenses. Achievements under the 2024 budget included reforms in the oil and gas sector, promotion of modular refineries, and increased in-country refining capacity.