By Innocent Odoh
Abuja
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited has sought the assistance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ to conduct its operations within and outside the country.
General Manager, business and government relations of the company, Simbi K. Wabote, made the call yesterday when visited the Foreign Affairs’ Minister, Amb Aminu Wali, in his office in Abuja.
Wabote, who said that Shell engages in both internal and external issues, said there is the need to interface with the ministry for better operations.
“As a company we deal with both internal and external issues relating to our business. So there might be need for interface with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on what we do because most of what we do cross the boundaries of Nigeria.
“We also solicit your support on issues and to interact actively with the ministry on issues bordering on our operations which goes beyond local to the international scene from time to time. So I felt it would be good to see how we can cooperate with each other as we progress and see how we can be part of the Transformation Agenda of Mr President. Clearly as one of the largest industries in the country, our contributions and activities greatly enhance government’s activities in the country,” he said.
Responding, the Minister, Amb Wali, who pledged the ministry’s unflinching support, said the ministry is poised to promote economic and diplomatic activities within and outside the country.
“Shell being the premier oil company in this country, as a pioneer oil company in the country, holds a special position in our economic life and of course our foreign exchange earnings. So certainly your contribution is critical to our development. We are here to support you in whatever area both internally and internationally,” he said.