Stakeholders Urge Protection of Host Community Resources

On Wednesday, community leaders, political actors, women, youth, and entrepreneurs gathered in Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, to discuss the management of resources intended for host communities in light of the upcoming 2027 general elections. Hon.

Esem Eyiboh, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Media and Publicity, stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of funds allocated to the petroleum industry, particularly under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He raised concerns about the need for host communities to develop trust in the management of the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) fund.

Eyiboh urged relevant authorities to investigate allegations of irregular fund management and insisted that host communities deserve to fully benefit from the resources generated. The event saw support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and included contributions from various stakeholders, including former NDDC Managing Director Sir Bassei Dan Abia, who highlighted the need for unity and inclusivity in governance to achieve sustainable development.