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Mr. Uduak-Joe NtukMr. Uduak-Joe Ntuk, has been appointed as the California State Oil and Gas Supervisor, responsible for managing the Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR), the first Nigerian-American to hold this position in the history of the largest state in America.

Mr. Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California announced the appointment Joe-Ntuk as the supervisor of the organisation which uses science and sound engineering practices to regulate the drilling, operation and permanent closure of energy resource wells.

DOGGR also carried out oversight of the oil, natural gas and geothermal industries in California to ensure protection of the public and the environment.

Ntuk had served as the Petroleum Administrator for the City of Los Angeles, the second largest city in the United States of America, according to a statement issued from the Governor’s office.

“In Los Angeles, he was responsible for oversight and policy of oil fields, gas storage facilities, petroleum refineries and pipeline franchise agreements.

“Prior to joining the city of Los Angeles, he had worked for several companies, including Tyco, General Electric and Chevron.

“Being a technical professional with both public and private sector energy experience, he provided technical advice to the Mayor, City Council, and various City Departments,” said the governor’s office.

It added that Ntuk, a strong believer in Nigeria and its potentials, had expressed his will to share his expertise to further develop the Nigerian petroleum industry and the possibilities of building a mutually-beneficial relationship with the state of California.

“A Nigerian-based Oil and Gas Consulting Company is exploring the possibilities and has initiated discussions regarding building a business relationship between the Nigerian oil and gas industry and the state of California through Mr Ntuk.

“He is the first Nigerian-American to hold this position in California’s history and his family is from the Port City of Calabar, Cross River State,” said the statement.