By Henry Umoru

ABUJA – The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM) has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its continuous efforts in empowering oil-producing communities and fostering sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the National President of HOSTCOM, High Chief Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi, lauded the Commission’s proactive approach in resolving long-standing issues, including the completion of the Marginal Field Bid Round and the establishment of a community dispute resolution center in Bayelsa State, bringing justice closer to the people.

Tamaranebi also praised NUPRC for increasing Nigeria’s oil production to 2 million barrels per day, up from 1.6 million, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to transparency and regulatory adherence. He urged stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of the 3% OPEX fund allocation for host communities.

He also recognized the collaboration between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and key ministers, which has attracted significant global investments, such as the $5 billion Bonga North Deep offshore field deal.

Under the leadership of Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, NUPRC has made significant progress in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. Notably, the Commission has established 136 Host Communities Development Trusts (HCDTs) and created the HOSTCOMPLY digital platform to ensure transparency in managing community funds.

Looking ahead to 2025, HOSTCOM remains committed to partnering with NUPRC and other stakeholders to further the rights of host communities, reduce oil theft, and promote prosperity in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.

Tamaranebi’s statement read, “HOSTCOM has taken stock of NUPRC’s activities, especially in its partnership with HOSTCOM under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021. We commend the Commission’s proactive role, particularly in developing the Host Communities Development Regulation and the establishment of the first-ever community dispute resolution center in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.”

The statement also highlighted the completion of key projects, including 17 regulations, 13 of which were gazetted, and the establishment of 136 HCDTs to manage the 3% provision stipulated in the PIA. NUPRC’s efforts in digital transparency through the HOSTCOMPLY platform and sensitization forums on PIA have further strengthened its commitment to the development of host communities.