According to Daily Post on January 5, 2026, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has hailed the recent appointments of two prominent Rivers State natives to senior roles in Nigeria’s petroleum regulatory bodies, calling it a meaningful boost for the state and its political community.
The appointments, endorsed by President Bola Tinubu, named Senator Magnus Abe as Chairman of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission board and Kenneth Kobani as a non-executive member of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
These selections have sparked interest in Rivers State, given the oil and gas industry’s vital role in both state and national finances.
Wike made the remarks during a visit to Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area, where he commended the federal government’s inclusion of Rivers indigenes in high-level regulatory positions.
He viewed the moves as evidence of recognition for the state’s contributions to national progress.
The minister highlighted the timing, noting the appointments coincide with ongoing reforms to enhance transparency, efficiency, and oversight in the petroleum sector, making seasoned appointees especially fitting.
Senator Magnus Abe, a two-term former representative of Rivers South-East in the Senate, previously served on the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation board and currently chairs the National Agency of the Great Green Wall.
His new role positions him to oversee key elements of oil exploration and production—core to Nigeria’s revenue and energy needs.
Kenneth Kobani, the other nominee, brings experience from serving as Minister of State for Trade under President Goodluck Jonathan and as Secretary to the Rivers State Government during Wike’s governorship.
His non-executive position places him within the body regulating refining, transport, storage, and distribution of petroleum products nationwide.
Wike said: “As we’re arriving, we have two nominations by Tinubu—Abe and Kobani. This demonstrates Mr. President honors his commitments and agreements. We’re standing by the truth, and the truth will liberate us.”
Naija news channel
