Emmanuel Seeks Industrial Accord between Firm and Host Communities

Okon Bassey in Uyo

Communities in Akwa Ibom State have been urged to stop unnecessary friction, conflict and protest and embrace industries established in their areas by providing congenial environment for the companies to operate and break even for the overall development of the host and the state.

The State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel made the call while inspecting facility at the operational base of Amalgamated Oil Company Nigeria Limited located at Mbokpu Uko Akai in Urue Offong Oruko Local Government Area of the state.

He argued that without enabling environment investors cannot be attracted to any to explore the abundant resources available in the state stressing that companies attract other subsidiary companies that generate more jobs, create wealth and contribute to the development of the state.

The governor maintained that his administration is poised to generate wealth by attracting investors who would engage the people meaningfully rather than sharing money to a few individuals and groups under the guise of empowerment.

Accordingly, he tasked youths to use the platform of dialogue through the local government councils and relevant government departments to channel their grievances and be guided by Memorandum of Understanding signed with companies operating in their areas.

Similarly, the former deputy governor of the state, Chief Etim Okpoyo, commended the Udom Emmanuel for his vision of industrialising the state, attesting that Urue Offong Oruko Community is a great beneficiary of the industrialisation programme of the state administration.

He expressed optimism that Amalgamated Oil Company Nigeria Limited would usher in development to the host community in view of the ever increasing demand for gas and other Petro – chemicals which the company intends to produce.

Chief Okpoyo who noted that the Mbokpu Uko Akai Community appreciate the berth of the Oil and Gas Company in their domain, assured that the host Communities would Cooperate with the company for it to achieve its smooth operations.

The Project Manager, Mr Praveen Kuma said that the company would soon commence drilling of Oil and Gas resources and used the occasion to thank the state government for providing quality infrastructure for the takeoff of the project.

Kuma hinted that the company is working assiduously to put in place site infrastructures which are spring boards to the operations of other phases of Oil and Gas explorations and particularly sued for cooperation from the host community to enable the company realised it mission assuring of mutual benefits between the State, company and the host community.