By Samuel Ogenyi, Uyo
A group, ‘FDN Projects’ has said their decision to honour some eminent Nigerians was in recognition of their pivotal roles in streamlining operations in the oil and gas sector for the benefit of the country.
A statement endorsed by its president, Alexander Ajagbonna said Senator Bassey Akpan and others would receive various awards at a ceremony slated for Abuja next month to commemorate the 2020 Democracy Heroes Award ( DHA).
Akpan represents Akwa Ibom North East senatorial district and is the senate committee chairman on petroleum resources (upstream).
The Democracy Heroes Award is an initiative of FDN Projects, which was launched over seven years ago to, “recognise, honour and celebrate men and women who have contributed to the development of the nation and have manifested leadership style that distinguish them from ordinary citizens and politicians”.
According to the organizers, the recipients are given these awards “in recognition of their courageous actions and exemplary leadership who have used their public offices as a key instrument to better the lives of many.”
The senator according to the organisers won the most votes of Nigerians for the award whose past recipients include former Presidents, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan.
“Akpan’s nomination for the award according to the organisers was in recognition of his patriotic and exemplary role he played in resolving the age-long cost dispute between the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation and Chevron Nigeria Limited leading to the signing of the Escravos Gas to Liquid (EGTL) Agreement in favour of Nigeria
“It is also in recognition of his pivotal role in sponsoring the Bill to Amend the Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contract Act D3 LFN 2004, which was passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari, an action believed to have saved Nigeria several billions of dollars.
“Also, a Bill to end gas flaring in Nigeria, sponsored by him has received considerable attention in the Senate having passed through the second reading.” The statement explained.
