By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Acting in compliance with the Provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil and operator of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC)/MPN Joint Venture yesterday inaugurated two Host Community Development Trusts in Akwa Ibom State.
They include the Incorporated Trustees of NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust (Eket, Mbo, ONNA, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, Esit Eket and Eastern Obolo communities), and the Incorporated Trustees of NNPC/MPN JV Ibeno Host Community Development Trust (Ibeno community).
At the unveiling ceremonies in Eket, General Manager, Joint Venture Operations of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mark Fraser, said the inauguration events signal a significant milestone for the NNPC/MPN JV and its host communities in the state as it sets in motion the commencement of a new era of organic and sustainable community development.
“With the inauguration of these Trusts, our communities in Akwa Ibom State will now be in the driver’s seat and determine the pace, nature and impact of community development projects and programs in the respective host communities.
“We are delighted that the collaborative efforts involving our company, partner, communities, regulator and state government have resulted in the success we are witnessing today.
“We are confident that with the quality of individuals selected by the communities to serve on the Trusts, the people will enjoy the benefits as envisioned by the framers of the Petroleum Industry Act. The ultimate objective is for the Trusts to help enhance peace and further accelerate development and prosperity in our host communities.” Fraser said.
He disclosed that the Joint Venture has enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with the host communities and has continued to play its part through significant revenue contributions and community development initiatives, noting that the JV has consistently remained the highest private sector employer of labour in the state.
In a remark, Chief Upstream Investment Officer,NUIMS, Bala Wunti represented by the Manager, Stakeholder Relations, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, Julie Utang, commended stakeholders for successfully harmonizing various interests, culminating in the eventual incorporation of the two Trusts.
According to Wunti, “as we get into the next phase, we should remain guided by the provisions of the enabling Act and regulations, ensuring we sustain our collaborations to derive optimal value.”
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