Over 1,100 host community projects ongoing in Niger Delta, says NUPRC

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that more than 1,100 development projects are currently active across the Niger Delta region. These initiatives are being implemented under the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) framework, established by the landmark Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021.

“

We are so delighted to be here today at this inauguration of the PML 66 HCDT. It is a testament to the implementation and the operationalisation of the Host Community Development Trust. It is a transformational initiative that has the tendency and the potential to turn our host community into a wonder, and the gains have already been recorded since the implementation of the HCDT.

Kingsley Ehiaguina, Assistant Director of Host Community Development Affairs at NUPRC, shared these details during the inauguration of the Board of Trustees for the PML 66 Host Communities Development Trust in Port Harcourt. The PIA framework aims to ensure that communities directly impacted by oil and gas operations receive tangible benefits through the identification and execution of projects tailored to their specific development needs.

Ehiaguina described the HCDT as a "transformational initiative" with the potential to significantly improve host communities. He reported that since the framework's inception, 163 HCDTs have been incorporated, with billions of naira already disbursed. "Over 1,100 projects are ongoing across the Niger Delta," he stated, adding that more than 200 projects have already been commissioned, demonstrating the PIA and HCDT framework's effectiveness.

“

Since the implementation of the HCDT, 163 HCDTs have been incorporated, and I can tell you that billions of naira have been remitted into the various accounts, and over 1,100 projects are ongoing across the Niger Delta. We have commissioned over 200 projects. I can tell you that the PIA and the HCDT framework are working.

He commended Ingentia Energies Limited for its commitment to the PIA's objectives and urged the newly inaugurated Board of Trustees to operate with transparency and prioritize the best interests of their communities. The NUPRC assured its support in ensuring companies fulfill their statutory obligations, such as the three percent contribution, to facilitate sustainable community development.

“

From the NUPRC, we’ll ensure that everything that you own as your right is given to you by ensuring that the company pays its three per cent statutory contribution and ensuring that the sustainable development you seek for your community is achieved.