PIA can still be amended — Lawan

Senate President Ahmed Lawan says the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) which was recently assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari can be brought back to the National Assembly for an amendment if issues are identified in it.

Lawan said this Wednesday while fielding questions from journalists shortly after a brief ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on the setting up of an implementation Committee for the new law.

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He said the areas that required amendments could be easily identified with the commencement of the implementation of the new law.

“So, this is something we all have to address with some optimism and hope that it would be okay. But because we are human beings, no act of human beings could be perfect. So, when we are able to see issues, the National Assembly is there. Bring them for amendment. Even the most difficult issues can still be brought back to the National Assembly if it is worthwhile to do so.”

Lawan, while reacting to questions on the agitation for more funds for the host communities, said the host communities are winners as well.

“This time, the host communities have been specifically mentioned and these funds should go there. We want to see people who will be appointed, taking this as trust and do what is right. Of course, there will be so much employment and jobs especially in the midstream of the value chain,” he said.