Stakeholders in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector have emphasised the urgent need for robust strategic partnerships among host communities, operators, regulators, and the government to ensure the successful implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
This call dominated discussions at a Stakeholders Forum organised by the KEFFESSO Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) at the NCDMB Conference Centre in Yenagoa.
The event, themed “Strengthening Visionary Leadership, Accountability, and Inclusive Growth in Host Communities,” brought together community leaders, oil company executives, and regulatory officials for in-depth deliberations on sustainable development.
The KEFFESSO HCDT, representing 11 host communities in Southern Ijaw and Brass Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State, manages the mandatory 3% annual operating expenditure contribution from oil operators for community development projects.
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King Moses Theophilus, Chairman of the KEFFESSO HCDT Board of Trustees, acknowledged the PIA’s transformative impact but highlighted ongoing challenges, including limited local participation in contracting, employment opportunities, and capacity building.
“While the PIA provides a solid foundation, collaboration is no longer optional but essential to bridge implementation gaps and deliver inclusive growth,” he said.
Representing First Exploration and Production (First E&P), Head of Social Performance Ayebatonye Basuo noted that the company’s partnership with the trust has delivered impactful interventions in healthcare, education, and enterprise development, promoting peace and stability.
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting HCDTs, while goodwill messages were received from Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and top officials of NMDPRA and NUPRC.
The forum featured workshops for HCDT executives, women, and youth representatives, as well as a plenary session.
