By Emmanuella Anokam
The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM) says the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) Fund is being implemented in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021).
Dr Benjamin Tamaranebi, National President, HOSTCOM, said this at a media briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
He said, contrary to claims that the implementation of the projects was slow, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) was executing 137 projects in Akwa Ibom with over N200 billion disbursed.
He said HOSTCOM’s attention was drawn to recent media publications regarding alleged delays in funding development projects in host communities in Akwa Ibom.
He said the publications claimed that host communities in Akwa Ibom had expressed frustration over the delayed release of funds by oil companies to HCDT, which hindered the implementation of projects outlined in their respective development plans.
Tamaranebi, who confirmed that NUPRC was working hard to ensure that host communities benefited from the HCDT funds, said it established mechanisms to safeguard the funds, while ensuring accountability in disbursement and management.
“We wish to state categorically that the NUPRC is fully committed to the implementation of the HCDT in line with Chapter Three of the PIA, ensuring the objectives of fostering sustainable prosperity and provision of direct social and economic benefits are well achieved.
“It is worth mentioning that NUPRC has diligently super-intended the incorporation process, which has resulted in the full incorporation of 137 HCDTs with over N200 billion disbursed.
“About 198 developmental projects are currently ongoing in various aspects of community development, including education, healthcare infrastructure, and economic empowerment inclusive of Akwa Ibom communities,” he said.
The HOSTCOM president stated that some yet-to-be-funded projects were undergoing due diligence and validation processes.
“Against this backdrop, in response to the recent claims in newspapers, we wish to provide clarification to ensure accurate information is conveyed to the public and stakeholders,” he said.
He explained that the Ibeno, Mbo, and Esit Eket communities were well covered in the HCDTs implementation process.
He confirmed that the NUPRC in conjunction with HOSTCOM Project Konsult held a sensitisation programme in Akwa Ibom, where traditional rulers and the state’s Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources delivered the position of the state.
“Other achievements recorded include establishment of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centres in Bayelsa and Lagos at the NUPRC’s National Oil and Gas Excellence Centre.
“ADR mechanisms include mediation and arbitration providing a structured process for resolving conflicts without resorting to litigations.
“The ADR supports the efficient resolution of disputes, preserving relationships and reducing the time and cost associated with legal proceedings, for easy resolution of grievances for peaceful coexistence of Settlors with the host communities,” he stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)