The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has reiterated its dedication to ensuring that all processes involved in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 are conducted in strict accordance with the law. The commission also affirmed the need for compliance from Settlors and the designated Host Communities Development Trustees, along with their respective management and advisory bodies.
Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan, Chief Executive of the NUPRC, conveyed this assurance on Thursday during a sensitization workshop for Delta State Stakeholders and Petroleum Communities. This workshop, organised and sponsored by the NUPRC with support from the Delta State Government and Mecco And Marine Holdings Limited, centred on the progress of implementing the direct social benefits for host communities as stipulated in the PIA.
Eyesan, who was represented by Chief Ambassador Ogunnubi Olusegun Benjamin, the Regional Coordinator of the NUPRC Warri Office, emphasized the commission's role in ensuring full adherence to the PIA 2021. She explained that the NUPRC, acting as the federal government's agency responsible for overseeing, establishing, and administering the PIA 2021, is committed to ensuring that all associated processes are executed in compliance with the Act.
She further elaborated on the purpose and objectives of the PIA Act, highlighting its aims to foster sustainable prosperity, provide direct socio- economic benefits from petroleum operations to host communities, maintain peace and harmonious relationships between communities and operating companies, and establish a framework for the sustainable development of these communities.
"These outcomes can only be achieved through mutual understanding, cooperation, and collaboration between the company and the host communities. I believe this is already in place, which is why we can gather here today to brainstorm and enhance our understanding of the act for better results," she remarked.
Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, praised the NUPRC for organising the sensitization workshop focused on the PIA Act, particularly Chapter Three concerning host communities. Represented by the State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Hon. Peter Uviejitobor, the governor noted that the engagement demonstrated the state's shared commitment to strengthening understanding, cooperation, and trust among host communities, operators, and the government in the PIA's implementation.
"We sincerely hope that the discussions will promote transparency, peaceful coexistence, and sustainable development across our petroleum host communities in Delta State. The Delta State Government remains steadfast in its support for initiatives that deepen stakeholder collaboration and ensure that the objectives of the host communities' framework under the PIA are fully realised for the benefit of our people," he added.
High Chief George Bucknor, Consultant to NUPRC and Managing Director of Mecco and Marine Holdings Ltd, stated that the workshop's aim was to educate stakeholders in Delta State about the sustainable development goals outlined in Chapter 3 of the Petroleum Industry Act. He specified these objectives as ensuring host communities receive their direct social and economic benefits from petroleum activities in their areas, collecting actionable intelligence on the activities of Settlor/Host Communities Development Trustees to ensure effective compliance with the PIA's mandate, and facilitating adherence to the provisions of Chapter 3 of the PIA.
He also revealed that Chapter 3 of the Act establishes a framework for sustainable development within petroleum host communities, detailing key provisions such as the establishment of Host Communities Development Trusts, funding mechanisms, governance structures, and a grievance mechanism for resolving disputes.
HRM Stanley Peredigha Luke Kalanama V111, the Pere of Akugbene-Mein kingdom, and Oba Fredrick, the Olugbo of Ugbo, commended the NUPRC for organising the sensitization workshop. They noted that it provided a crucial platform for host communities and other key stakeholders to express their concerns and seek clarifications regarding oil exploration and community benefits.
The traditional rulers urged the commission to ensure that funds designated for community development by oil companies are disbursed in a timely manner.
Sylvester Idowu
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