Traditional rulers from host communities along the Eastern Corridor of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) have called on the Federal Government to prioritize the welfare and development of their people to ensure the protection and sustainability of vital oil infrastructure in the region.
The monarchs made the call during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting organized by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for host communities in Rivers, Abia, and Imo States.
They commended PINL for stabilizing operations and boosting oil output but lamented that living conditions in their communities have not improved despite increased production.
Leading the appeal, His Majesty Eze Sergeant Awuse, Paramount Ruler of Emohua in Rivers State, stressed that community welfare is essential to maintaining peace and protecting oil assets.
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“When the people are cared for, they will protect the assets within their environment,” he said, urging the government to empower traditional rulers for effective community development and conflict resolution.
Similarly, King Samuel Nnee, Coordinator of the Supreme Council of Ogoni Traditional Rulers, decried the neglect of host communities and called for more government support. “It has not been easy with traditional rulers, government should help our communities,” he appealed.
Other speakers, including youth leader Comrade Legborsi Yamaabana and Eze Ekpeye Logbo, King Kevin Anugwo (represented by Dr. Patricia Ogbonnaya), praised PINL’s people-centered approach and urged the Federal Government to retain the company’s services for continued stability and growth in the Niger Delta.
