NNPC Limited has underscored the need for collaboration and efficient use of host community funds to foster sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
This was highlighted during a stakeholder engagement session with the KEFFESO Host Communities Development Trust in Bayelsa State.
The session, detailed in a press statement issued on Monday and signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, Olufemi Soneye, aimed at ensuring that funds allocated under the Petroleum Industry Act are effectively utilized.
The engagement brought together various host communities, including Koluama 1 and 2, Ezetu 1 and 2, and Foropa, among others.
Discussions centered on directing development funds toward essential projects that cater to pressing needs such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Seyi Omotowa, represented by Mrs. Edith Lawson, Deputy Manager of External Relations at NUIMS, reiterated the company’s commitment to this cause.
“NNPC Ltd was committed to ensuring that funds approved for the development of host communities under the PIA are channelled towards projects that address critical needs such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure,” Omotowa stated.
He further emphasized that “collaboration between stakeholders was essential to achieving lasting socio-economic development.”
Speaking on the importance of peace in achieving development goals, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, lauded the partnership between NNPC LTD/FIRST E&P JV and KEFFESO HCDT. He encouraged community leaders to foster cooperation.
“He emphasized that without peace, companies would struggle to operate effectively, ultimately impacting the 3% Host Community Fund approved in the PIA for development initiatives,” the statement noted.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission also lent its support to the initiative.
Executive Commissioner for Safety, Environment, and Community at NUPRC, Captain John Tonlagha, described the institutionalization of the community development trust as a milestone for Nigeria’s petroleum sector, bringing much-needed governance, transparency, and accountability to community development.
“He commended the institutionalization of the community development trust initiative, describing it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s petroleum sector with the introduction of the much-needed governance, transparency, and accountability in community development efforts,” the statement quoted.
Similarly, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board praised the KEFFESO HCDT for its commitment to sustainable development.
Mr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Barr. Naboth Onyesoh, Director of Legal Services, commended the progress made in fostering economic and social growth.
FIRST E&P’s Managing Director, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, represented by Mr. John Alamu, also acknowledged the trust’s efforts in fostering dialogue and accountability.
He described KEFFESO HCDT as “a model for other host community development trusts to emulate.”
Expressing appreciation, HRH Moses Theophilus, Chairman of the KEFFESO HCDT, thanked NNPC Limited/FIRST E&P JV for their proactive engagement with host communities.
The forum concluded with a collective call for continued collaboration, reinforcing the view that “the success of the PIA depends on strong partnerships, peace, and a shared commitment to community development,” as captured in the official press release.
