Get Guardian on GoogleWACT–APM Terminals Nigeria has signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with one of its host communities, Onne in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, to strengthen sustainable development and cooperation.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Managing Director of WACT–APM Terminals Nigeria, Jeethu Jose, described the MoA as a dynamic framework designed to guide collaboration on key initiatives.
He noted that the agreement provides a structured approach to addressing the needs of the community and ensures mutual accountability.
Jose also outlined several ongoing and completed community development projects, affirming the company’s continued commitment to social responsibility and inclusive growth in its area of operation.
The Community Relations Manager, Justin Okwuofu, emphasised the participatory nature of the MoA development process.
He said the journey began in 2022 with a capacity-building workshop for selected community members to enhance their understanding of drafting Memoranda of Understanding or Agreements.
“We have seen cases where companies impose MoUs on communities, and due to a lack of understanding, communities sign without knowing what they are agreeing to. To avoid this, we held a series of meetings to ensure the agreement reflected collective input.” Okwuofu said.
He called on the community to continue its cooperation as WACT rolls out future development initiatives aligned with the signed agreement.
In their responses, community leaders expressed satisfaction with the process and optimism about its outcomes.
The Paramount Ruler of Onne, S.N. Jiala, One-eh Onne, praised WACT for setting a pathfinding example in corporate-community engagement.
“They have made it possible for all stakeholders to come together in mutual understanding for progressive development,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Community Development Committee, Sunday Dudu, described the event as historic, noting that it would serve as a benchmark for other investors in Onne.
“What we are witnessing today has never happened in past years. This MoA is a landmark that sets the ball rolling for future development,” he said.
The signing ceremony was attended by WACT staff, community leaders, and representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other stakeholders.
