By Busari Kabirat
The NNPCL has made known its dedication to work with host communities in the Niger Delta region towards economic prosperity lasting peace.
Mallam Mele Kyari, who is the Group CEO, stated this in a discussion with the Niger Delta communities which was held on Thursday, at the Igurubia Square Ultra-Modern Town Hall, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, in partnership with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Hon. Gift Johnbull. The discussion session is also part of the citizen assembly engagements, which is a side event of the forthcoming Climate of Parties (COP) 29 Conference coming up this year in November at the Baku, Azerbaijan.
Mr. Sani Kabo, who represented Mallam Kyari, at the occasion at the Head, Business Services of the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), made it known that the engagement marked an important step in the journey to strengthen unity and promote development in the region through the Third Phase Amnesty Program.
In accordance with the GCEO, the NNPC Ltd. is dedicated to sustained dialogue with traditional leaders, ex-agitators, and youth leaders towards addressing local concerns and restoring trust across the nine Niger Delta states.
Kyari said the coming of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, has emplaced allocation of 3% of NNPC Ltd’s operational expenditures (OPEX) to community development, a development that will ensure projects reflect the communities’ priorities whilst investing in skills acquisition, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihood initiatives for the benefit of the various communities.
“Our mission is clear. We are committed to fostering lasting peace, creating economic opportunities, and transforming the Niger Delta into a model of unity and progress. NNPC Ltd. stands with the Niger Delta as it builds a prosperous future that is driven by mutual respect and collaboration.”