OML 17 HCDT Officially Flags Off Operations with 2-Day Onboarding in Port Harcourt
The OML 17 Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) marked a significant milestone with the formal commencement of its operations through a two-day onboarding event held from July 30th to 31st in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This pivotal gathering brought together members of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and Management Committee, officially signaling the flag-off of the HCDT’s activities across its host communities.
The event, organized in full alignment with the mandates of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), reinforces the Trust’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for residents in oil-producing communities within the OML 17 asset, operated under the NNPC/Heirs Energies Joint Venture.
Key Participants and Stakeholders
The onboarding was attended by a wide array of stakeholders and dignitaries, underscoring the collaborative and transparent approach of the HCDT.
- Mr. Osayande Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, addressed participants virtually, reaffirming the company’s long-term commitment to community-driven development.
- Also in attendance were:
- Nnene-Anochie Chidube, Vice President, Community Affairs, Safety, Health & Environment (CASHES)
- Charles Aigbe, Deputy Vice President, Community Relations
- Senior representatives from NNPC Limited
- Delegates from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC)
- Members of host community leadership and traditional institutions
A New Chapter for OML 17 Communities
This onboarding program was designed to familiarise BoT and committee members with the operational framework, governance structure, and strategic goals of the Trust. Sessions covered:
- The principles and legal framework of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)
- Roles and responsibilities of Trust members
- Implementation processes for community development projects
- Stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution mechanisms
The two-day event sets a strong foundation for accountability, transparency, and impact-driven development in line with the core objectives of the PIA and the aspirations of the people of OML 17.
Looking Ahead
As the Trust moves from planning to implementation, the focus remains on community empowerment, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and economic inclusion. With strong governance and active participation from all stakeholders, the OML 17 HCDT is poised to become a model of sustainable community development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
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