By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

Anatolia Energy and Services Limited, operator of the PML104/Okiori Oil Field, has launched a three-day leadership development programme for members of the Nembe Okiori Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

The capacity-building programme, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, is designed to equip the Trust with the skills to drive sustainable development in Nembe Kingdom host communities.

The training covers key aspects of HCDT management, including strategic leadership, management skills, teamwork, legal and regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement, and communication.

Speaking at the opening session on Tuesday, Anatolia Energy’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Adeleke Adedipe, urged participants to maximize the opportunity.

He noted that the Settlor invested significant resources to ensure the training adequately prepares Trust members for their roles.

“The Settlor has invested heavily in this training to equip Trust members to manage HCDT operations effectively, ensure sustainable development in the communities, and provide an enabling environment for the Settlor’s production operations,” Dr. Adedipe said.

The Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), represented by Bayelsa State Field Office Manager Mr. Sylvester Bighoro, charged Trust members to take the programme seriously and apply the knowledge gained.

He expressed the Commission’s appreciation for the Settlor’s capacity-building initiative.

Similarly, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Mineral Resources, represented by the Director of Petroleum, Engr. Kuroakighe Simon Mathias, thanked Anatolia Energy for organizing the training.

He said the initiative would significantly enhance the HCDT’s performance.

“The Bayelsa State government will continue to support oil and gas companies to ensure smooth operations in the state,” he added.

An industry observer noted that the programme would further position the Trust to deliver on its mandate for the long-term development of the communities, in partnership with the Settlor.

Participants will receive certificates at the end of the three-day training.

The Nembe Okiori Host Community Development Trust was inaugurated on June 10, 2025.

The faculty includes renowned leadership coach Dr. Emmanuel Dorgbaa of the African Institute of Public Speaking and Communications Excellence; legal luminary and commercial law expert Barrister Folake Sadiq; and industry expert and public relations professional Oyinkro Olobio.

The faculty composition reflects Anatolia Energy’s commitment to building the HCDT members’ capacity for long-term performance.