Indigenes of Ogoloma and Koniama communities in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State have applauded the Federal Government for enforcing the establishment of Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). They described the initiative as a major step toward shared prosperity and peaceful coexistence among stakeholders in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

The commendation came during the inauguration of the Dawes-Island Host Community Development Trusts by Petralon 54, an indigenous oil exploration and production company. The event, held in Port Harcourt, marked a new phase of partnership between the company and its host communities — Ogoloma and Koniama (Okochiri and Koniju).

Speaking at the event, Chief Miebaka Tamunopekerebia, Chairman of the Ogoloma HCDT Board of Trustees, praised both the Federal Government and Petralon 54 for their commitment to inclusive development. He noted that the HCDT would ensure amicable conflict resolution and mutual growth for the host communities and oil companies. “With this Trust, we now have a sustainable structure for growth, peace, and prosperity,” he said.

Similarly, Chief Chris Biriowu, Chairman of the Koniama HCDT and spokesperson for the Okochiri Kingdom, described the Trust as a tool for community empowerment and grassroots development. He appreciated Petralon 54 for its transparency and pledged the cooperation of local residents. “This initiative will bring real empowerment and progress to our people,” Biriowu stated.

On his part, Ahonsi Unuigbe, Chief Executive Officer of Petralon Energy, said the creation of the Trust was not only in compliance with the PIA Section 3, but also a reflection of the company’s long-standing tradition of building partnerships with host communities. He reaffirmed Petralon’s commitment to sustainable development, while the company’s Executive Director, Uduakobong Equere, added that the HCDTs will ensure benefits from oil operations are visible and measurable at the grassroots level.