President Museveni Holds Crucial Talks with Nigerian Traditional Ruler, King Ogiame Atuwatse III, on Oil Exploration and Agricultural Processing. The meeting, which occurred on December 12, 2023, at State Lodge, Nakasero, emphasized collaborative efforts between Uganda and the Kingdom of Warri in Delta State.
Addressing oil-related matters, President Museveni conveyed Uganda’s progress in refinery development and expressed openness to collaboration with other stakeholders. He encouraged input from King Ogiame Atuwatse III and his delegation, emphasizing the potential for shared success.
President Museveni was pleased to learn about Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote’s refinery project in Lagos, foreseeing its positive impact on Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in energy.
Shifting the discussion to agriculture, President Museveni urged attention to agro-processing as a vital sector for Uganda’s sustained growth. He highlighted the enduring significance of agriculture, stating, “Agriculture is everlasting oil. It will be there forever.”
Referencing the thriving dairy industry in Uganda, President Museveni noted its substantial growth since 1986 when he advised the development of the sector. He stressed the need for an expanded market for dairy products to address oversupply issues.
Touching on cultural unity, President Museveni urged traditional leaders to focus on uniting Africans, emphasizing shared linkages over perceived differences. His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III expressed admiration for President Museveni’s insightful memory of Nigeria’s recent political struggles.
Accompanying the Nigerian delegation, Mr. Fabrice Rulinda, the Entebbe Municipality Mayor, shared that the team had met relevant authorities in oil and gas and expressed readiness to train young people in these sectors. The delegation has also secured land in Mubende for farming initiatives.
The Nigerian delegation included Prince Toju Emiko, Chief Elijah Temile, Chief Walter Bovo, Chief Wilson Olley, Mr. Kolawole Olaleye, Mr. Sola Nesiama (oil and gas expert), Engineer Obi Charles Nnanna (CEO of Kaltani), Mr. Osahon Okunbo (CEO Ature Energy), and Dr. Morris Idiovwa (Chairman Bicens group of companies).
His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, born Utieyinoritsetsola Emiko, was crowned the 21st Olu of Warri on August 21, 2021, succeeding his uncle, Ogiame Ikenwoli.
