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FG Seeks Speedy Resolution Of Disputes In Oil, Gas Industry
The Federal Government, yesterday, inaugurated an Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC) to quicken the resolution of disputes in the oil and gas industry in Lagos.
It also inaugurated a six-member Advisory Council and a 20-member Body of Neutrals to mediate on disputes before the ADRC, which is one of the units of the National Oil and Gas Excellence Centre (NOGEC).
The Director, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Mr Sarki Auwalu, while inaugurating the council, noted that there were several oil and gas litigation both in Nigerian and foreign courts and tribunals.
He said, “These disputes usually take a considerable amount of time and cost to resolve. A typical dispute in court runs for a significant period prior to the rendering of a final judgement which may not be to the satisfaction of any of the parties.
“In certain instances, court judgements and even arbitral awards do not adequately resolve disputes in a manner consistent with the regulatory and commercial interests of the industry.
“There was, therefore, an increasing awareness of the need to establish an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre specifically designed for use by the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.”
Auwalu said the setting up of the ADRC was in consonance with the provisions of the Petroleum Act Cap P10 Laws of the Federation 2004 which emphasises the settlement of disputes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms without recourse to litigation.
According to him, the centre already has 43 cases which were sent in after President Muhammadu Buhari inaugurated NOGEC on January 21.
Auwalu noted that participating or referring of cases to ADRC was voluntary, but would be beneficial to the parties.
He expressed optimism that the establishment of the ADRC would boost investors’ confidence by easing the cost of doing business; reducing capital flight occasioned by expensive out-of-country court and arbitration proceedings.
The DPR boss said it would also build competence and capacity in Nigerians by accrediting them to become ADR professionals.
He thanked President Buhari and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, for their commitment to transforming Nigeria into an oil and gas hub with various policies and programmes.
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RSG INAUGURATES ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY COMMITTEE
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to organize the celebration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) in the State.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba in Port Harcourt, last Thursday.
Dr Anabraba who also serves as Chairman of the Committee
highlighted the State Government’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s peace and unity.
“These heroes have given their lives for the security and peace of our nation and deserve to be celebrated. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifice,” he said.
Dr. Anabraba further extended recognition to all Security Agencies in the State, emphasizing the importance of the event in appreciating their contributions to national security and sovereignty.
The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed on January 15 across the country is dedicated to remember Nigeria’s departed soldiers and honouring the nation’s veterans.
