By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Initiative for Africa Society Inclusion and Diversity, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has accused oil companies operating in Akwa Ibom State of failing to comply with the community development plans stipulated in their Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs).
Speaking at a one-day town hall meeting held in Uyo on Tuesday, the Executive Director of the NGO, Olayinka Akeredolu-Martins, expressed dismay over the lack of transparency and effective implementation of these plans.
“It is unacceptable that oil companies treat community development plans as secret documents,” Akeredolu-Martins stated. “Many communities lack access to these plans, and in some cases, their contents have been altered. Instead of meaningful projects, we now see motorcycles being distributed as development initiatives and bursaries of just ₦100,000 offered to students in place of proper scholarships.”
She emphasized the need for equitable and collaborative implementation of Host Community Development Plans (HCDPs), urging oil companies to engage communities as equal partners in development.
Stakeholders Demand Compliance
Participants at the meeting, drawn from host communities, government agencies, and civil society organizations, called for sanctions against companies failing to adhere to the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021. The Act mandates the establishment of HCDTs to ensure development in oil-producing areas.
Stakeholders lamented that non-compliance with these plans remains a recurring issue in Nigeria’s oil-rich regions. They noted that host communities often bear the environmental and economic burdens of oil exploration and production and deserve better engagement and support.
Disappointment was also expressed over the absence of oil company representatives, including Universal Energy Resources Ltd and TotalEnergies, despite their acknowledgment of invitations to the meeting.
“The neglect of host communities is deeply concerning,” one participant remarked. “Companies must prioritize the welfare of these communities as a matter of responsibility and fairness.”
The meeting concluded with a strong call for increased accountability and a commitment to ensuring that community development plans are executed effectively and transparently.
