Oil firm empowers Akwa Ibom indigenes

An indigenous oil company, Moni Pulo Limited, has empowered no fewer than 70 indigenes of its host communities of Effiat and Mbo in Mbo Council of Akwa Ibom State with business start-ups and some motorcycles.

Describing the gesture as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR), Chief Executive Officer of Moni Pulo, Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs, noted that the empowerment became necessary to ensure transformation of the communities, while sustainably creating individual and communal growth.

Lulu-Briggs, who was represented by the company’s Head of Administration and Community Relations, Alabo Clifford, explained that despite the challenges in the oil sector, the company had continued to invest in the wellbeing of the host communities.

The company management said building capacity of youths of its host communities, would go a long way in reducing the economic challenges in the Niger Delta, thereby reducing youths’ restiveness.

Moni Pulo commended the Akwa Ibom State Government, the host communities and Mbo Council for the peaceful working environment the company has enjoyed over the years, noting that it would not take the relationship for granted.

State Commissioner for Power and Petroleum Development, Dr. John Etim, commended the company for its scholarship awards and empowerment of the host communities.

Etim appealed to the company to consider training the host communities on industry-relevant skills to integrate and make them major players in the sector.