-
Host communities across three Rivers LGAs praised PINL for festive palliatives and healthcare services.
-
The outreach reached more than 35 communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor.
-
Community leaders pledged continued support in protecting pipeline infrastructure.
Host communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) corridor in Obio/Akpor, Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of Rivers State have commended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) for distributing Christmas palliatives and providing free medical services to residents.
READ ALSO: Rivers Youths Discover Illegal Oil Tapping Point
The appreciation was expressed during the outreach programme held at the Emohua Council Secretariat, where food items were distributed and healthcare services offered to beneficiaries drawn from over 35 communities across the three local government areas.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
Community leaders described the initiative as exceptional, noting that such consistent and impactful engagement by companies operating in the area is uncommon.
Speaking on behalf of the host communities, Chief Solomon Azunda Wejinya, Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC) of Ibaa Community, praised PINL for maintaining regular engagement beyond festive seasons.
He said the company has continued to support host communities through youth and women empowerment initiatives, as well as scholarship programmes for indigenes.
According to him, PINL’s transparent approach and inclusive engagement have helped to build trust between the company and the communities.
Chief Wejinya added that sustained engagement of this nature would significantly reduce tensions and disputes between oil companies and host communities in the Niger Delta.
“If this model of engagement had been adopted earlier, conflicts between communities and oil companies would have been greatly minimised,” he said.
He further assured PINL of the continued support of host communities in protecting the Trans Niger Pipeline, stressing that residents remain vigilant against acts of vandalism.
“We are committed to safeguarding the facilities on our land. The communities in Emohua stand firmly with PINL, and we do not foresee any vandalism,” he added.
Earlier, the General Manager, Community Relations and Stakeholders Engagement at PINL, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said the initiative was designed to appreciate host communities for their cooperation in ensuring the safety and uninterrupted operation of the pipeline.
Dr. Mezeh explained that the outreach was part of the company’s commitment to giving back to communities that play a critical role in protecting national assets.
“We are grateful to these communities for their support. Beyond the distribution of food items, we also brought medical services to support the health and wellbeing of the people,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to the Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, council officials and PINL’s partners, Learn and Leadwise Resources, for their collaboration in delivering the programme.
Dr. Mezeh also called on youths across host communities to sustain their cooperation with PINL, stressing that pipeline vandalism poses serious environmental and economic risks.
“We must continue to work together to maintain zero infractions along the Eastern Corridor, protect the environment and ensure increased production for the benefit of the nation and our communities,” he said.
