The host communities of Halkin E&P Atala PML 105, Azagbene in Ekeremor Local Government Area and Ezetu in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, both in Bayelsa State, have commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

The communities said the Commission’s implementation of the Act has strengthened transparency, accountability and confidence in the administration of Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector. They also expressed appreciation for the impact of Halkin Exploration and Production Limited’s operations and community development initiatives in the Atala Petroleum Mining Licence (PML 105).

Speaking on behalf of the communities, Chief Idani Ebibomene, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Azagbene and Ezetu Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT), praised the NUPRC for its commitment to implementing the provisions of the PIA and ensuring that host communities benefit from the framework established under the law.

He also commended Halkin E&P for maintaining the trust of the host communities through sustained investment in social infrastructure and community development.

According to Chief Ebibomene, the company has executed several projects across the communities, including the installation of solar streetlights, renovation of the community town hall and guest house, construction of public toilets, market stalls, a community stadium and school buildings, as well as the provision of educational materials for students.

Also speaking, Chief Fawari Tokowei, Vice Chairman of the HCDT Board of Trustees, described Halkin E&P as a valued partner to the Ezetu community. He noted that the company’s ongoing water development project would provide significant relief to residents and further improve living conditions.

Chief Tokowei also applauded the NUPRC for its implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, describing the Commission’s efforts as important to promoting responsible resource development and strengthening collaboration between operators and host communities.

The Petroleum Industry Act, enacted in 2021, provides a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Among its key objectives are improving sector governance, enhancing regulatory certainty, promoting investment, and ensuring that host communities benefit more directly from petroleum operations through structured development initiatives.