The Delta State government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the full implementation of agreements between host communities and oil companies, in alignment with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
The government emphasized its unwavering support for host communities and warned against any attempts to undermine their rights.
A sensitisation workshop was held in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, aimed at educating host communities about the provisions of the PIA Act 2021. The workshop was organized by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission in collaboration with Mecco and Marine Holdings Limited.
The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Mr. Monday Onyeme, assured residents that the government would not tolerate any actions that would undermine the welfare of host communities. He encouraged host communities to ensure the security of oil company facilities in their areas, as this is crucial to guaranteeing their entitlement to the three percent fund as outlined in the PIA Act 2021.
The Chief Executive Officer of the NUPRC, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, highlighted the significance of host communities in the oil and gas sector. He emphasized that their contributions have been integral to the nation’s economic growth and that their role is critical in ensuring sustainable development.
You may also like: Delta State Government Approves N275 Billion for Major Infrastructure Projects
The workshop aimed to enlighten host communities on their social benefits under sections 234 and 240 of the PIA, as well as the provisions in Section 257, subsection 2. The consultant to the NUPRC and CEO of Mecco and Marine Holdings Limited, Chief George Bucknor, explained the goal of the workshop.
Traditional rulers from the host communities, including the Obi of Aboh, Dr. Gregory Nnamdi Oputa III, commended the initiative and pledged to take active roles in safeguarding oil facilities within their domains.
The workshop is part of ongoing efforts to engage host communities, ensuring that they fully understand and benefit from the provisions of the PIA 2021, while also fostering a productive relationship between these communities and oil companies.
The oil and gas sector plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economic growth, and the government is committed to ensuring that host communities benefit from the industry’s activities.
The Delta State government is committed to engaging with host communities and ensuring that their concerns are addressed. The government is working to promote peace and foster harmonious relations between oil companies and host communities.
