The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to deploy the Ecological Fund for shoreline protection and erosion control around the Eraskorp Industrial Park in Gbarain, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Lawmakers said the intervention is needed to curb worsening erosion, protect critical infrastructure and safeguard a major industrial investment in the state.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Mr. Oforji Oboku, who raised concerns over the impact of shoreline erosion on the Eraskon Lubricants/Chemicals Blending Plant project and surrounding communities.
Presenting the motion, Oboku described the project as a significant indigenous petrochemical investment aimed at boosting local manufacturing, reducing dependence on imported lubricant and chemical products, and supporting Nigeria’s industrialisation drive.
According to him, the facility includes a lubricant and chemical blending plant with a production capacity of 128,000 litres per day, as well as an aerosol plant and a carton manufacturing facility.
Oboku noted that substantial progress had been made on the project before shoreline erosion caused severe damage to the site.
He said, “The project is expected to generate more than 200 direct jobs and over 1,000 indirect employment opportunities upon completion, while boosting economic activities in Bayelsa State and contributing to Nigeria’s economy.”
The lawmaker added that the investment could also increase government revenue and stimulate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.
He, however, warned that persistent shoreline erosion has delayed the project and threatened its viability.
According to him, the Integrated Manufacturing Complex, which was about 75 per cent completed, had to be dismantled after erosion exposed and damaged its foundation and shoreline protection structures.
Oboku further stated that all processing equipment had already been delivered to the site, while construction of key facilities, including storage tanks and roofing works, had reached advanced stages before the erosion setback.
He argued that the Federal Government has a constitutional responsibility to promote industrial development and protect investments that contribute to economic growth.
Following deliberations, the House adopted the motion and directed its Committee on Ecological Fund to facilitate implementation of the resolutions and report back within six weeks for further legislative action.
