Host communities in Bayelsa State have attributed a wave of community development projects and improved engagement with oil operators to the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

The communities, under the Halkin Exploration and Production Limited Atala Petroleum Mining Licence (PML 105), said that the implementation of the PIA has strengthened transparency, accountability, and trust in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector, while ensuring that host communities benefit more directly from oil and gas operations.

The commendation came from the Azagbene community in Ekeremor Local Council Area and the Ezetu community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, both beneficiaries of the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) established under the Act.

Recall that the Petroleum Industry Act, signed into law in 2021, introduced a new legal and fiscal framework for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, including the establishment of Host Communities Development Trusts aimed at ensuring oil-producing communities receive sustainable social and economic benefits from petroleum operations.

Speaking on behalf of the communities, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Azagbene and Ezetu Host Communities Development Trust, Chief Idani Ebibomene, said the NUPRC had remained committed to enforcing the provisions of the PIA and ensuring that host communities receive the benefits envisaged by the landmark legislation.

He said the Commission’s approach had enhanced confidence in the governance of Nigeria’s upstream petroleum industry while fostering greater transparency and accountability.

Ebibomene also praised Halkin Exploration and Production Limited for translating the objectives of the PIA into visible community development projects.

According to him, the company has executed several initiatives across the host communities, including the installation of solar-powered streetlights, renovation of community town halls and guest houses, construction of public toilets, market stalls, a community stadium and school buildings, as well as the distribution of educational materials to students.

Vice Chairman of the HCDT Board of Trustees, Fawari Tokowei, described Halkin E&P as a dependable partner in the development of the Ezetu Community.

He noted that the company’s ongoing water project would provide residents with improved access to potable water, significantly enhancing their quality of life.

Tokowei also commended the NUPRC for ensuring the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, saying the Commission’s efforts had strengthened collaboration between operators and host communities while promoting responsible resource development.