ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited (AGPC) has inaugurated the Board of Trustees of its Communities Development Trust (HCDT), marking a significant new phase in its partnership with its host and impacted communities. It also sets the stage for a more structured and sustainable approach to community development.

The three-day inauguration and onboarding workshop, held at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together members of the HCDT Board of Trustees, regulators, AGPC management team and other stakeholders for a comprehensive orientation on the mandate, governance structure and responsibilities of the Trust under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Managing Director of AGPC, Mr. James Makinde, described the inauguration as an important milestone in the company’s relationship with its communities.

Represented by the General Manager (Technical), Engr. Amaechi Nwogbe,

Makinde reaffirmed AGPC’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship and sustainable community development, while acknowledging the cooperation and support of the communities within its area of operations.

He charged the newly inaugurated Board to justify the confidence reposed in its members by demonstrating transparency, accountability, fairness and prudence in the management of the Trust’s resources.

He also urged the Board to prioritise projects that respond to genuine community needs and deliver sustainable and measurable benefits.

Makinde noted that particular emphasis should be placed on initiatives that promote livelihoods, education, healthcare, skills development and economic empowerment, while ensuring community ownership and proper maintenance of completed projects.

The Managing Director encouraged inclusive community participation, with appropriate attention to the needs of young people, women and vulnerable groups.

He also urged stakeholders to sustain dialogue and pursue peaceful resolution of issues.

He assured the Board of AGPC’s support within the company’s responsibilities and encouraged it to serve as an effective bridge between the company and the communities, thereby strengthening trust and collaboration.

During the sensitisation session, Deputy Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Madam Ngozi Asogwa,

Said the programme provided participants with a deeper understanding of the HCDT governance framework under the PIA Act, including the respective responsibilities of the Board of Trustees, management and advisory committees.

The Board was reminded of its responsibility to provide effective oversight, identify community development priorities, develop and implement the community development plan, approve eligible projects and ensure that Trust resources are deployed appropriately.

Participants were also briefed on the statutory funding framework of the HCDT, including the 3% contribution of the operator’s annual operating expenditure, as well as the reporting, monitoring and compliance requirements designed to promote transparency and accountability.

The regulator assured stakeholders of continued oversight and support to ensure that the statutory entitlements of host communities are protected.

Communities were also encouraged to maintain peace and stability, recognising that sustained operations are important to the availability of resources for community development.

•PHOTO: HCDT Board Chairman, Engr. Gideon Nweze (fifth left); Managing Director of AGPC, Mr. James Makinde (sixth left); and NMDPRA representative, Madam Ngozi Asogwa (seventh left), all in the front row, with other members of the HCDT Board and AGPC representatives at the inauguration

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