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Bayelsa govt, NCDMB perform groundbreaking of AS Energies’ Pipe Manufacturing Company

Bayelsa state government and the Nigeria Content Development Management Board, (NCDMB) have performed the groundbreaking of a multi-billion dollars Pipe Manufacturing Company at Polaku in the Yenagoa local government area.

The project which is geared towards boosting the economy of the state, as well create employment opportunities for the teeming youths is initiated by the African Star Manufacturing Limited.

It will produce Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) and Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) pipes.

The siting of the project in Bayelsa State is due to the huge gas resources in the state and the particular site in Polaku confers several advantages including its proximity to the Shell Gbarain Gas Gathering Plant.

The plant is designed to run on natural gas which will be provided by Shell Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Management and Development Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote noted that the Pipe Manufacturing Factory is very significant to eliminate the importation of GRE and GRP pipes required for use in the oil and gas industry and other sectors of the economy.

Wabote further stressed that the pipes are more resistant, lighter, less corrosive, and more durable than conventional carbon steel pipes in use, which means a reduction in maintenance cost. “I am delighted to know that these pipes will be produced to meet the regulatory standards, such as; ISO 9001 – Quality Management System Requirements, ISO 14001 – Environmental Management Systems Standard and the British Standard 18001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems Standard.”

He commended the leadership of the Chief Executive officer of AS Energies Limited, Gbenga Olaniyan for his contribution to the growth of the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector and the growth of the Nigerian local content while reassuring them that NCDMB will do anything within his powers to support him as he progresses on the project.

While performing the groundbreaking ceremony on behalf of the Bayelsa State Government, the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Hon. Ebiere Jones, noted that Polaku people are peace-loving people who are always ready to receive and encourage companies to invest in their land.

Earlier, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama kingdom and Chairman, Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, while making his remarks, admonished the AS Energie Limited to desist from any activity that will jeopardize their relationship with the people or cause division among the people like other oil companies.

He further advised them to treat the people of Polaku with love and respect while urging them to be transparent and accountable in their dealings with the community and land owners, to avoid division or misunderstanding.

“We are very easy to maintain. treat us as brothers, friends and partners and your company will grow from strength to strength,” he said.

The Technical Adviser to Bayelsa State Governor on Economic Development and Liaison, Dr. Ebiekure Jasper Eradiri has also commended the Management of AsEnergy Services Ltd, Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Hon. Ebiere Jones for their efforts in making sure the project sees the light of the day under 6months, as outcomes from the Bayelsa To The World Expo event held last September, 2022, as well as other stakeholders over roles played towards economic growth for the benefit of Bayelsans.

Among dignitaries present at the epoch making event are; MD/CEO ASENERGY, Project Directors, General managers of NCDMB, Royal Fathers, Representatives of Polaku Community, Chiefs and other top government functionaries.

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