Tensions in Bonny Kingdom, Rivers State, reached a boiling point on Monday, January 13, 2025, as residents prepared for a massive shutdown over grievances against multinational corporations operating on the island. However, a swift intervention by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited averted what could have been a prolonged standoff.
At the heart of the agitation were perceived neglect and unmet promises tied to Train-7 Community Social Responsibility (CSR) projects. Protesters cited delays in key developments, including the expansion of roads, construction of a mini-stadium and sports academy, a vehicular terminal, and a 2.5km road connecting strategic locations. These projects agreed upon with NLNG and its partners, SCD-JV, have remained largely on paper, fueling discontent among the locals.
The Chairman of the Bonny Kingdom Development Committee (BKDC), Amairigha Edward Hart, expressed the frustration of the community, stating, “It is disheartening that despite the presence of companies like Shell, NLNG, Mobil, TotalEnergies, and BelemaOil, Bonny people are worse off.”
As tensions escalated, the Bonny Youth Federation (BYF) mobilized residents to shut down key access routes, markets, and offices on the island. The planned protest drew reactions from various stakeholders, including the Finima Youth Congress (FYC), which distanced itself from the movement, leading to further divisions within the community.
Efforts to prevent the protest involved intervention from Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Commissioner of Police, and the Amanyanabo of Bonny Kingdom. Their appeals, coupled with a renewed commitment from NLNG, led to an agreement to suspend the demonstration and reopen the island.
In a statement, NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, reassured stakeholders of the company’s dedication to delivering on its promises. “We remain fully committed to the Train-7 CRS projects and the broader development of Bonny Kingdom,” she said.
Horsfall highlighted progress on two major initiatives—the Shell Gate-Coal Beach Road and the Bonny Vehicular Terminal. These projects have advanced to the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) phase and are scheduled for completion by 2027. “NLNG has a strong track record of impactful CSR initiatives, and Train-7 will further enhance the sustainable development of Bonny Island,” she added.
Following negotiations, the BKDC Chairman addressed a gathering at the Government School field, announcing the suspension of the protest and confirming that meetings with the IOCs would begin within two days.
As Bonny Kingdom awaits tangible action, the episode underscores the ongoing struggle between resource-rich communities and the corporations that extract wealth from their lands. For now, the hope is that commitments will translate into real progress, fostering trust and sustainable development in the region.
