The Federal Government of Nigeria has been praised by the indigenes of Ogoloma and Koniama communities in Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State, for mandating oil companies to establish Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) as part of their operations. This requirement aligns with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which seeks shared prosperity among all stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.
The commendation was voiced during the inauguration of the HCDT for the Dawes‑Island communities by Petralon 54, an indigenous oil exploration and production company. Petralon 54 is the sole operator of the Dawes‑Island Field, which includes the Ogoloma and Koniama communities. Its decision to set up the HCDT is seen as a significant step toward sustainable development and peaceful coexistence between the host communities and the oil company.
Chief Miebaka Tamunopekerebia, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ogoloma Host Community Development Trust, said the HCDT will provide a platform for amicable conflict resolution and ensure mutual prosperity for all stakeholders. He noted that the PIA mandates oil companies to establish HCDTs to address the needs of oil‑bearing and impacted communities. Similarly, Chief Chris Biriowu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Koniama HCDT, described the trust as a vehicle for community empowerment and development, commending Petralon 54 for its commitment to the wellbeing of the Okochiri and Koniju peoples.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, and traditional rulers from the host communities. The event marked a milestone in the company’s efforts to promote community growth, development, and harmony.
The HCDT is designed to ensure that the benefits of oil and gas operations are visible, measurable, and sustainable at the grassroots level. It will be managed by a board of trustees comprising representatives from the host communities, the oil company, and regulatory agencies. This establishment is a positive step toward community development and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria’s oil‑producing regions and is expected to serve as a model for other oil companies operating in the country. With the HCDT in place, host communities can look forward to enjoying the benefits of oil and gas operations, while the oil company can operate in a peaceful and sustainable environment.
Comments are closed for this story.