Halkin E&P Atala Host Communities Commend NUPRC on PIA Implementation

Host communities in Bayelsa State have lauded the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its effective implementation of the 2021 Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The praise comes from the communities of Halkin E&P OML 46 Atala, specifically Azagbene in Ekeremor local government area and Ezetu in Southern Ijaw local government area.

This commendation follows a recent judgment by the Federal Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, which affirmed Halkin Exploration and Production Limited (Halkin E&P) as the rightful owner and operator of the Atala Marginal Oil Field (OML 46). A three-member panel dismissed an appeal by Bayelsa Oil Company Limited, deeming it unmeritorious and awarding costs against the appellant.

Idani Ebibomene, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) for the Azagbene and Ezetu Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT), expressed strong satisfaction with Halkin E&P's performance. He highlighted the unprecedented development witnessed in the communities since the company began operations, directly linking it to the comprehensive implementation of the PIA by NUPRC. Ebibomene detailed various community initiatives supported by Halkin E&P, including solar lighting, renovation of community buildings, construction of public facilities, provision of school supplies, and ongoing projects like a community stadium.

Fawari Tokowei, Vice Chairman of the HCDT Board of Trustees, echoed these sentiments, describing Halkin E&P as a blessing to the Ezetu Community. He specifically mentioned the ongoing water development project as a significant relief for community members. Tokowei also reiterated the commendation for NUPRC's role in implementing the PIA, underscoring the positive impact of the act on community development and relations with oil exploration companies.

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Halkin E&P have so far installed solar lighting, renovated the communities town hall and guest house, built new public toilets, market shops, a community stadium, school buildings, provided school supplies for the students of the communities, and so much more is ongoing.