The Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), in partnership with AllGrace Energy Limited, conducted an on-site inspection of the construction of the Ubima community town hall in Ikwerre LGA, Rivers State. The project, part of the 2024 Community Development Plan (CDP) spearheaded by the Ubima Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), is being built as an ultra-modern facility.
During the inspection, Engr. Olatokunbo Karimu, Assistant Director of Community Project Management at the NUPRC, expressed both satisfaction with the quality of work and frustration over the project’s slow progress. “We are pleased with the quality of the materials and work done so far,” Karimu said. “However, the pace is disappointing. We expected the project to have been roofed by now.”
Karimu assured that an appraisal would be conducted with the contractor and HCDT management to address the delays and ensure timely completion.
Folashade Aderanti-Olowoshoke, Secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT) for Ubima HCDT and representative of AllGrace Energy Ltd, emphasized that the town hall project aligns with the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and NUPRC Regulations 2022. “This facility will serve as a hub for local engagement and the overall welfare of the community,” Aderanti-Olowoshoke said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the socio-economic growth of Ubima.
The project contractor, Okachi Everest of Construe Limited, attributed the delay to difficulties in sourcing skilled local manpower. Despite initial challenges, he expressed optimism about completing the 1,500-seat capacity civic center by December or January. Everest added that community involvement has been strong, with both elders and youths supporting the project and contributing to its progress.
The town hall, which includes 14 offices, is expected to become a vital center for fostering dialogue, culture, and development within the Ubima community.
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