Edith CHUKU
Stakeholders across the oil rich Niger Delta region, have reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive, transparent, and accountable implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Communities, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, regulatory agencies, and host community development trusts HCDTs, gave this reaffirmation at a consultative meetings.
The stakeholders engagement which was convened by the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) with support from the Ford Foundation, spanned Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Ondo, and Rivers states.
The discussions focused on challenges and opportunities in operationalizing the PIA, sharing best practices, and crafting actionable strategies to ensure host communities fully benefit from the PIA framework.
The Meetings highlighted key observations, including capacity gaps, outdated community development plans (CDPs), limited representation of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs), weak monitoring and evaluation practices, and the need for better synergy with local and state governments.
A central focus of these convenings was the review and adoption of five innovative community development models; the Inclusivity Model (to ensure the active participation of women, youth, and PWDs), the Project Sharing Matrix Model (to promote equitable distribution of projects and resources).
Others are, the Project and Capacity Building Model (integrating training and project execution), the Multi-Settlor Communities Model (facilitating harmonization of development plans in communities with multiple oil and gas operators), and the Monitoring and Evaluation Model (for continuous project tracking and accountability).
At the end of the meetings, stakeholders emphasised the urgent need for continuous capacity-building programmes for HCDT members and community leaders, with dedicated funding from HCDT budgets, as well as, the need to increase the representation of women, youth, and PWDs in HCDT governance, project execution, and benefits, mandating inclusive policies and programs.
Also, they agreed to prioritize long-term socio-economic benefits, such as education, healthcare, renewable energy, and environmental remediation over short-term gains.
Effiong Essien, acting executive director of PIND, stated, “We are proud to see host communities across the Niger Delta driving these conversations and taking ownership of their development.
“By fostering inclusive dialogue, building capacity, and strengthening accountability, we can ensure that the promises of the PIA are fulfilled in a way that leaves no one behind.”
Chuks Ofulue, advocacy manager of PIND, added that, “These multi-state consultations have laid the groundwork for stronger partnerships between communities, regulatory agencies, and settlors.
“By adopting these community development models and pushing for inclusive State-level MSPs, we can build transparent, equitable, and community-led development frameworks that sustain peace and prosperity in the Niger Delta.”
