A strategic partnership between two of Nigeria’s foremost entrepreneurs, Mr. Julius Rone, OFR, of UTM Offshore Ltd, and Deacon Chris Iyovwaye of the Wellmann Group, has set the stage for a significant economic revival in Warri and the wider Niger Delta region.
Their recent meeting, held at UTM Offshore’s international headquarters in Lagos, marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to reposition Warri as a thriving oil and gas hub, echoing its once-celebrated role in Nigeria’s industrial growth.
Julius Rone, renowned as the “Gas King,” is spearheading Africa’s first Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) facility—a $3.2 billion project approved by the Federal Government and supported by international partners.
His leadership at UTM Offshore has placed the company at the forefront of Nigeria’s gas-based industrialization.
Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, affectionately known as Oscampio, chairs the Wellmann Group, a logistics powerhouse with an impressive track record in the oil and gas sector.
His contributions to infrastructure and industrial support services have made him a leading figure from the Niger Delta with global recognition.
Facilitated by prominent legal expert and regional advocate, Dr. Akpo Mudiaga Odje, and witnessed by respected Warri elder Mr. Bibi Scot-Emuakpor, the meeting brought together key figures dedicated to reclaiming the region’s economic pride.
Warri, once a centerpiece of Nigeria’s petroleum economy, has for years faced decline due to infrastructure neglect, instability, and environmental issues.
However, this alliance offers a renewed vision that integrates gas innovation with logistical strength, aiming to attract foreign direct investments, expand oil and gas infrastructure, empower indigenous businesses, and create jobs in fabrication, logistics, and gas value-chain development.
A senior official close to the development described the partnership as more than a philanthropic gesture—it is a bold step toward ensuring Warri is not left behind in the global energy shift.
The collaboration is already generating optimism among stakeholders, with many seeing it as a turning point for the region.
Dr. Odje expressed profound gratitude for what he described as a divinely orchestrated alliance, calling on all sons and daughters of the Niger Delta to unite behind a shared vision of economic progress.
In his remarks, Deacon Iyovwaye emphasized the importance of unity and commitment to a legacy that future generations can build upon, while Mr. Rone underscored the urgency of leveraging Nigeria’s vast gas resources to meet global energy demands, with Warri serving as the vital link.
Plans are already underway for a dedicated investment summit focused on Warri and the Niger Delta, with expected participation from government bodies, traditional rulers, and private sector leaders.
Analysts have hailed the partnership as one of the most impactful private sector collaborations for the region in recent times, with the potential to usher in a new era of growth and prosperity.
As momentum builds, hope is rising that Warri will once again emerge as a beacon of industrial excellence and economic opportunity in Nigeria.
