OANDO, ENERGIA build social infrastructure in host communities
Sopuruchi Onwuka
Partners in the Oando/Energia oil and gas exploration and production joint venture have completed and commissioned a multi-billion Naira cluster of infrastructure development project in communities contiguous to the production sites.
According to Oando Plc, the commissioned projects include the construction and furnishing of the Okpala-Uku Palaces, Ebendo Secondary School and the 1.7 kilometer Obodougwa internal road.
Also delivered are a 10-apartment corps members’ lodge, and the construction of Azunze/Azagba Phase 1 road, among others. All the community development projects are located in Emu-Ebendo, Obodougwa, Umusam-Ogbe, Isumpe, Ogbeani, Ogbole, and Umusadege communities in Delta State.
The completed projects, according to Oando, form part of the partners’ successful conclusion of joint venture’s 2023 Community Development Projects and Health Outreach Programs in an extensive efforts to improve the well-being of the people.
Themed “Building a Healthy Community,” the 2023 health outreach initiative covered the Obodougwa, Umusam, Umusadege, Isumpe, and Ogbeani communities.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Vincent Oyibode at the commissioning held in Ebendo community commended Energia/Oando JV for executing multi-billion Naira projects aimed at the growth and development of the seven oil-producing communities in Ndokwa West Council of the State.
Oyibode highlighted the exceptional performance of the Oando/Energia JV in uplifting local development, expressing gratitude to both partners for meeting their social responsibility mandates. “I want to thank you for providing what the people need to develop their communities”, he stated.
Crediting the success of the Community Development Projects to collaborative efforts between the oil companies and host communities, Oyibode emphasized that Oando/Energia has aligned with the State Government’s mission for meaningful development and scholarships. In addition, he cautioned oil-producing communities against disrupting oil company activities, urging the resolution of internal issues locally to avoid hindering community development.
The Managing Director of Energia Limited, Mr. Chidi Egonu, highlighted the company’s commitment to community development over the past 14 years, stating their philosophy is to grow the community in tandem with the company.
Representing the Chief Operating Officer of Oando Energy Resources, Dr. Ainojie ‘Alex’ Irune, was Asset Manager, Oando Energy Resources Mr. Seyi Fowora, who stressed the company’s commitment to making communities better than how they found them. He emphasized that these projects are a legacy for the future, ensuring socio-economic development through job creation and increased local capacity.
Also commenting, the Chairman of Ebendo Community Development Association (ECDA), Mr. Godwin Ozonor, commended the Oando/Energia JV for funding and executing projects that have transformed the Ebendo community and urged the swift completion of the ongoing 1.397km road construction.
Ogbuefi Anslem Oyibo, the Obodougwa community counterpart, applauded the oil companies for executing much-needed projects and highlighted that their initiatives have contributed to education and community development. He mentioned the community’s appreciation for the scholarship offered to 38 higher institution students and funds provided to over 100 youths and women to run their micro-credit schemes.
