Niger Delta: Oil Communities Urge CBN To Release Gas Flaring Monies

WARRI, DELTA, April 27, (THEWILL) - The association of the Niger Delta oil and gas producing communities, known as Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSTCOM), has amongst others called for the immediate release of the pending gas flare penalty funds warehoused by the Central Bank of Nigeria which is meant to be paid regularly and promptly to Host Communities.

The demand was contained in a communiqué issued by the association at its 1st National Conference held recently at Abuja, where it also deliberated on important issues concerning the future of oil and gas producing / impacted communities in Niger Delta.

Chief (DR) Alfred M. Bubor JP (AHNR), National Chairman of the association, signed the communiqué, obtained by THEWILL.

The association commended various governments for their various attempts at easing the pains of the region by approving 13% derivation to the oil and gas producing communities, creating NDDC, establishment of the Ministry of the Niger Delta, the Petroleum Industry Bill, and the Local Content Bill.

The Communiqué further queried states that are yet to establish their Oil & Gas Commissions to manage the 13% derivation from the Federal account, to immediately do so.

They asserted that host communities should be allowed to manage the 10% equity participation granted oil & gas producing communities while urging the federal government and oil & gas producing companies to engage HOSTCOM to provide surveillance and Right- of – Way maintenance of crude, gas pipeline and facilities in Nigeria.

The group also called for the employment of people from the host communities by both oil & gas companies.

The association reiterated it commitment to peace and determination to pursue the path of peace to ensure that the demand of the Host communities are met.