Hela Governor Francis Potape has restated his desire for a local firm to one day replace PNG LNG operator, ExxonMobil.
Speaking during the sponsorship announcement of the Hela Wigmen by Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) and the Hela Provincial Government, Potape reiterated the sentiment he made eight years ago.
He said this when commending KPHL and Managing Director, Wapu Sonk, for its support to the rugby league club.
“I made this speech in Kokopo when we signed the UBSA that one day a Papua New Guinea firm must take the place of ExxonMobil.
“ExxonMobil must not stay in this country for long. We need our own firms like in other countries in other parts of the world that produce oil and gas. Now is the time for this sort of company’s to rise up. And Kumul petroleum Holdings with Wapu Sonk and your vision sight I believe we are going to head there,” Potape said.
Meanwhile, Potape has called on resource companies in the country to invest more in sport, health, and education programs in the country to improve the lives of the people.