The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has reiterated its strong commitment to driving sustainable development in oil and gas host communities, emphasising the critical role of structured partnerships, effective governance, and accountability.
Speaking at the 2nd KEFFESO Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) Stakeholders’ Forum, held on Tuesday at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe (FNSE, FIPS), represented by the Director of Corporate Services, Dr. Abdulmalik Halilu, commended the collaborative efforts between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited (First E&P).
He described the partnership as a model for aligning the priorities of host communities, industry operators, and regulatory institutions. Engr. Ogbe noted that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has introduced a transformative framework for Host Community Development Trusts, positioning them as transparent, accountable, and effective vehicles for delivering long-term socio-economic benefits to oil-producing communities.
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The high-level forum featured technical workshops and panel discussions centred on leadership, transparency, and inclusive development. In a session on strategic leadership, the General Manager, Zonal Coordination at NCDMB, Mr. Ifeanyi Ukoha, highlighted the importance of community content guidelines in clearly defining roles and responsibilities between host communities and operators. He stressed the need for trust-building as a foundation for achieving sustainable outcomes.
During a panel session, the General Manager, Corporate Communications, NCDMB, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, called on stakeholders to shift “from compliance to impact.” He urged all parties to implement agreed resolutions, strengthen monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and foster deeper collaboration to ensure tangible and lasting results.
Participants across the discussions consistently identified vision, collaboration, and accountability as the essential pillars for successful host community development. Stakeholders, including government representatives, regulators, and industry partners, emphasised the need for sustained engagement to translate the provisions of the PIA into real benefits for host communities in the Niger Delta.
