Operators of the Otakikpo Oil Mining Lease-11 (OML-11) in Ikuru Town, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, have called on the host community to safeguard the oilfield against destruction and attacks. The joint venture, comprising Green Energy International Limited and Lekoil and Gas Investment Limited, made the appeal during the unveiling of community development projects and the launch of the Ikuru Town Water Project.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Anthony Adegbulugbe, Chairman of Green Energy International Limited, represented by Jonah Oke, highlighted the vital role of the Otakikpo oilfield. Describing it as a “critical national asset” and the “goose that lays the golden egg,” he stressed the importance of maintaining the field’s security.
“This field is the source of funds enabling us to complete development projects in Ikuru Town and beyond. It is our collective responsibility to protect it from destruction or disruption,” Adegbulugbe said.
He urged the community to foster peace and unity, warning that violence and insecurity could jeopardize ongoing development initiatives.
The projects unveiled were funded by the Ikuru Town Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), supported through the 3% allocation stipulated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Prof. Lysias Gilbert, Chairman of the HCDT Board of Trustees, commended Green Energy and Lekoil for their consistent support since the Trust’s inauguration in January 2023. He noted the seamless transition from the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to PIA regulations, enabling sustainable community development.
“Green Energy and Lekoil have ensured prompt disbursement of funds, facilitating numerous community projects, including the renovation of Community Secondary School and the water project,” Gilbert said.
The collaboration also extended to capacity-building initiatives for HCDT members through the New Nigeria Foundation, a consultancy firm specializing in community development.
School representatives, including Vice Principal (Admin) Mrs. Mercy Felix and Junior Secondary Principal Mr. Athanasius Solomon, expressed appreciation for the school renovations but appealed for further investments in the library, staff quarters, and ICT facilities.
The event underscored the significance of collective efforts in sustaining both community growth and the vital oilfield operations that fuel such progress.
