The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has received commendations for its management of host community development initiatives across the Niger Delta region over the past four years.
The Niger Delta Citizens Alliance (NDCA) acknowledged NUPRC’s progress in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act’s Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs). In a statement signed by President Kingsley Charles and Secretary-General Ogbobetta Nelli, the group highlighted significant achievements.
NUPRC has supervised approximately ₦373 billion in community development funds. This financing has supported over 500 projects across oil-producing states. Infrastructure developments include hospitals, schools, water facilities, and vocational training centers.
These projects span Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states. They have notably improved relationships between energy companies and local communities. The trust-building initiatives address long-standing tensions in the region.
The NDCA particularly praised NUPRC’s HostComply digital platform. This transparency dashboard enables public tracking of project funds. It has reduced financial diversion while increasing accountability in project execution.
The alliance urged oil companies to maintain compliance with Petroleum Industry Act obligations. This includes consistent payment of the mandatory 3% annual contribution to the Host Community Development Trust Fund.
Sustained funding is crucial for continuing development projects. It also preserves trust with Niger Delta communities. The statement marked NUPRC’s fourth anniversary since establishment in 2021.
NDCA described the commission as instrumental in driving community-focused development. Their oversight has transformed host community engagement frameworks across Nigeria’s oil regions.
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