The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has reinforced its dedication to fostering lasting peace and economic prosperity in the Niger Delta region.
According to Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Ltd. Olufemi Soneye, this commitment was highlighted during a dialogue session with Niger Delta communities held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, in partnership with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Hon. Gift Johnbull.
Speaking at the event, which took place at the Igurubia Square Ultra-Modern Town Hall, Group CEO Mallam Mele Kyari, represented by Mr. Sani Kabo, Head of Business Services at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue with community leaders, ex-agitators, and youth representatives to address local concerns and restore trust across the region. This event is part of broader engagements ahead of the COP 29 Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.
Kyari noted that the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 has bolstered NNPC Ltd.’s efforts to engage meaningfully with Niger Delta communities by allocating 3% of its operational expenditures (OPEX) to community development. This initiative aims to align projects with community priorities, focusing on skills acquisition, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihood programs.
“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,” Kyari said.
The dialogue session, part of the Third Phase Amnesty Program, marks a significant step towards strengthening unity and promoting sustainable development in the region.
