Chaos Erupts at National Assembly Over Missing Budget Documents for Petroleum Ministry

A tense confrontation unfolded at the National Assembly on Friday during the 2025 budget defence session for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. Senators and members of the House of Representatives erupted in anger over the absence of the necessary budget documents in advance, disrupting the proceedings.

The incident occurred during the presentation by the Minister of Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, who was accompanied by the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo. Lawmakers, frustrated by the delay in receiving the documents, voiced their displeasure, with one lawmaker directly confronting the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas) over the oversight.

In the midst of the heated atmosphere, Minister Lokpobiri offered an apology, attributing the delay to an unintentional mix-up. He assured the committee that the Ministry of Petroleum respects the National Assembly and would take steps to ensure such issues do not recur.

Despite the initial chaos, the session continued, with Ekpo using the opportunity to emphasize the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing explosions in the petroleum sector. He also highlighted efforts to expand the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a cleaner alternative energy source. Ekpo revealed that the government had released N222 billion to six companies to support the development of midstream and downstream infrastructure, aiming to facilitate nationwide CNG distribution.

The proposed 2025 budget for the Ministry of Petroleum Resources was presented, amounting to N4.25 billion, with allocations designated for personnel, overhead, and capital expenditures. Additionally, the session included a review of the ministry’s performance in the 2024 budget, showcasing progress in key areas such as oil and gas sector reforms, the promotion of modular refineries, and efforts to boost in-country refining capacity.

While the session was marred by the initial uproar, the presentation did provide insight into the government’s ongoing efforts to address energy challenges and improve the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.