NNPC pledges commitment to proper utilisation of PIA funds in Bayelsa communities
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC Ltd.) has reiterated its dedication to ensuring that funds allocated under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) are properly channelled to foster tangible development in oil-producing communities, particularly in Bayelsa State.
This commitment was affirmed by Mr Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Ltd., during a stakeholders’ engagement session with the KEFFESO Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.
The KEFFESO HCDT serves as the representative body for various oil-producing communities, including Koluama 1 and 2, Ezetu 1 and 2, Foropa, Fish Town, Ekeni, Sangana, Opu Okumbiri, Okumbiribeleu, and Oginibiri.
Speaking through Mrs Edith Lawson, Deputy Manager, External Relations at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Omotowa reaffirmed that the company remains resolute in directing PIA funds towards key development projects in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He also underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in driving sustainable socio-economic growth within oil-producing areas.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, commended the NNPC Ltd./FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture for maintaining a strategic partnership with host communities.
He urged community leaders to work collectively to uphold peace and stability, stressing that a peaceful environment is essential for oil companies to operate effectively. Any disruptions, he warned, would hinder the implementation of the three per cent Host Community Fund established under the PIA.
Similarly, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr Gbenga Komolafe, represented by Captain John Tonlagha, Executive Commissioner for Safety, Environment, and Community, described the formalisation of the community development trust initiative as a pivotal milestone in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
He noted that the initiative enhances governance, transparency, and accountability in the development of host communities.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr Felix Omatsola Ogbe, praised KEFFESO HCDT for utilising the PIA framework to promote long-term development.
Represented by Mr Naboth Onyesoh, Director of Legal Services at the NCDMB, Ogbe also acknowledged the NUPRC’s efforts in facilitating the incorporation of over 100 HCDTs, aimed at fostering economic and social progress in host communities.
The Managing Director of FIRST E&P, Mr Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, represented by Mr John Alamu, commended KEFFESO HCDT for its dedication to promoting dialogue, collaboration, and accountability.
He described the trust as an exemplary model that other host community development initiatives should strive to replicate.
His Royal Highness, Moses Theophilus, Chairman of KEFFESO HCDT, expressed deep appreciation to NNPC Ltd. and FIRST E&P for ensuring that host communities benefit meaningfully from the PIA framework.
The forum concluded with a resounding call for sustained cooperation among all stakeholders, reinforcing the notion that the success of the PIA relies on strong partnerships, stability, and a collective dedication to community advancement.
