Oil Workers Pray for Relief as Petrol Prices Spike and Crude Output Falls

Nigerian oil workers are turning to prayer as they grapple with high petrol prices and reduced crude production. Learn about the challenges facing the industry.

In response to rising petrol prices and a drop in crude oil production, oil workers and companies affiliated with Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources have turned to prayer for divine intervention.

Oil workers convened in Port Harcourt for a National Prayer Conference under the auspices of the Petroleum Industry Christian Fellowship International (PICFI) to tackle pressing challenges facing the oil and gas sector.

The workers, committing to do their utmost in addressing the industry’s challenges, appealed for divine assistance to help overcome the nation’s struggles.

Over the course of the three-day event, Shola Idowu, who serves as the National President of PICFI, spoke with reporters. He clarified that the group is made up of Christians employed in both local and international oil and gas industries, including corporations associated with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

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He noted that the organization’s members are sourced from leading industry giants, such as Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Chevron, Exxon Mobil, Oando, Nigeria LNG (NLNG), and Warri Refinery Petrochemical Company.

Idowu stated, “Each year, we organize a yearly prayer conference. This time, for the 20th edition, we’ve convened in Port Harcourt. Our purpose is to unite in prayer and seek God’s guidance while interceding on behalf of our industry, nation, and workplaces.”

Recognizing the economic difficulties facing Nigeria, Idowu emphasized that although political factors and poor decisions have contributed to the country’s struggles, prayer and virtuous actions are crucial for bringing about lasting change. He stated, “By combining our prayers with diligent effort while standing alongside the Lord, we believe we can create a meaningful difference.”

Idowu also called on the federal government and leaders in the oil and gas industry to take decisive steps to prevent further decline in Nigeria. “In the name of the Lord, we implore both government officials and industry leaders to act justly to save Nigeria from destruction,” he stated.

Rev. Collins Edebiri, the Chairman of PICFI’s Board of Trustees, also addressed attendees at the event, highlighting the critical need to tackle corruption within the oil and gas industry. He remarked, “The petroleum sector is ever-evolving—oil stands as a global commodity influenced by international politics that impact our nation. Our major challenges are leadership and corruption; however, if we unite with integrity and righteousness in mind, Nigeria holds great potential for success.”

He urged citizens to stay optimistic and collaborate with the government to enhance the nation’s future.