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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)/Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), Joint Venture (JV), has called upon stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in host communities. This appeal was made by Esimaje Brikinn, CNL General Manager of Policy, Government, and Public Affairs, during the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Egbema OPUDIS Host Communities’ Development Trust (HCDT) in Warri.

Representing Mr. Brikinn at the ceremony was Rilwanu Momodu, Chevron’s Area Manager of Policy, Government, and Public Affairs. In his speech, Mr. Brikinn emphasized Chevron’s commitment to fulfilling all regulatory obligations through the operationalization of HCDTs. He also highlighted the company’s aim to continue nurturing the mutually beneficial relationship it has long maintained with the host communities.

Mr. Brikinn further acknowledged the extensive history of partnership between Chevron, a multinational oil company, and its host communities. He reiterated that one of CNL’s core values is to ensure economic development and sustainability in its areas of operation. To drive development in the host communities, CNL introduced the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) as a community-led participatory partnership model for community development in 2005.

This model has served as a developmental template, benefiting over 400 communities and improving the lives of more than 600,000 individuals. With the enactment of the PIA, Chevron has transitioned from the GMoU era to a new regulatory framework. This shift introduces the vehicle of engagement between the settlor and the host communities: the HCDT, as mandated by the Act.

The inauguration of the Egbema OPUDIS HCDT fulfills this requirement and aims to ensure that communities surrounding Chevron’s operations continue to enjoy the benefits of economic development. Chevron expresses its support for the PIA and other industry improvement initiatives by the Nigerian government.

In conclusion, Mr. Brikinn appealed to all stakeholders to lend their continued support to ensure the successful achievement of the Act’s objectives and the further prosperity of the host communities.