The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has reiterated its dedication to fostering peace and driving economic prosperity in the Niger Delta region by strengthening its collaboration with host communities.
Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer in a statement said this commitment was emphasised by NNPC Group CEO, Mallam Mele Kyari, during a strategic dialogue with Niger Delta communities.
The session, which took place at the Igurubia Square Ultra-Modern Town Hall in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, was organised in partnership with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Gift Johnbull.
The dialogue is part of broader citizen assembly engagements, serving as a prelude to the upcoming Climate of Parties (COP) 29 Conference scheduled for November in Baku, Azerbaijan.
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Represented by Sani Kabo, Head of Business Services at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Kyari highlighted the significance of ongoing dialogue with traditional leaders, ex-agitators, and youth representatives.
Kyari added that the collaboration is key to fostering unity, addressing local concerns, and ensuring sustainable development through the Third Phase Amnesty Program.
Kyari also underscored the transformative impact of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which allocates 3% of NNPC Ltd’s operational expenditures (OPEX) to community development.
He said the initiative aims to align projects with the priorities of host communities while promoting skills acquisition, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods across the nine Niger Delta states.
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“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.
