The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) has signed Global Memoranda of Understanding (GMoU) with host communities to ensure their rapid development in Rivers.
Mrs Sophia Horsfall, Manager, NLNG’s Corporate Communications and Public Affairs said in a statement on Friday in Port Harcourt.
Horsfall who spoke through NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Mrs Eyono Fatayi-Williams said that the company was passionate to maintaining its exemplary relationships with its host communities.
According to her, the signing of the GMoU with host communities would enable the communities to take ownership and drive sustainable community development with the active support of NLNG.
“The first phase of the new agreements commences with stakeholders from Ogbum-nu-Abali, Ubeta and Rumuji communities in Rivers state.
“Under the GMoU, 10 clusters will ultimately be created to drive community-initiated projects through a foundation that will have a board of trustees, steering communities and community trusts.
“NLNG will provide funds for these clusters and also encourage them to seek additional funds from other donors to finance development initiatives in the respective communities,” she said.
Fatayi-Williams said that the agreement would enable each community to identify its development needs and embark on such projects.
She said that NLNG would mentor the communities through partnerships with non-governmental organisations and international development agencies to build local capacity to manage the projects.
“So, the development of the communities by the communities and for the communities is a win-win strategy for everyone.
“The GMoU will create a safe and peaceful environment for all stakeholders to thrive and meet both development and business goals.
“We need to change the narrative on sustainable development in the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole,” she said.
The general manager assured the company’s commitment to embark on sustainable developmental initiatives in education, health, economic empowerment and infrastructure development.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Chieftaincy and Community Affairs,Sam EjekwuMr Sam Ejekwu, lauded NLNG and its host communities for promoting peace in the state.
He stated that the phase two of the agreement shall cover other communities, including Amadi-Ama, Ekpeye, Kalabari, Egi, Abua, Okrika, Emohua and some communities in Ogba in the state.
