OLOIBIRI MUSEUM: FG TARGETS 2028 COMPLETION AS CONTRACTOR ASSURES ON DELIVERY

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre in Bayelsa State by 2028.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, gave the assurance on Wednesday during an inspection of the ongoing project in Oloibiri, Ogbia Local Government Area of the state.

Oloibiri holds historical significance as the site where commercial oil exploration in Nigeria began in 1956.

Lokpobiri expressed satisfaction with the progress of work, describing the project as a landmark facility that would preserve Nigeria’s petroleum history while promoting tourism and research.

“This is a masterpiece. The main building itself is over 10,000 square metres,” the minister said.

He disclosed that about N70 billion had been paid for the first phase of the project and assured that the Federal Government would continue to provide the necessary funding to prevent delays.
Lokpobiri also pledged to conduct regular inspections of the project and urged the host community to continue supporting the construction.

The Project Director, Architect Ladipo Lewis, said the project had progressed beyond 15 per cent, with major foundation and structural works already completed.

Lewis said the museum would document the history and development of Nigeria’s petroleum industry, while the research centre would provide facilities for documentation, research, training and local content development.

He said the facility was also designed to boost tourism and create economic opportunities for Oloibiri and neighbouring communities.

“This is an opportunity to engage the entire world and put Oloibiri on the map of the world,” Lewis said.

The Project Manager for Julius Berger, Botha de Bruyn, assured that the contractor remained committed to delivering the project according to approved designs, specifications and construction schedules.

The Oloibiri Museum and Research Centre when completed will serve as a national heritage, research and tourism centre dedicated to preserving the history of Nigeria’s petroleum industry. It will contain galleries, archival spaces, laboratories, research facilities, an auditorium, restaurants, shopping facilities and outdoor oil and gas exhibits.

Reported by Bright Okpo