Group Seeks Transparency In Trust Fund For Akwa Ibom Oil Communities

A Civil Society Organisation (CSO) committed to poverty and disaster management in the Niger Delta oil-bearing communities has underscored the importance of effective management of the oil resources accruing to the region by the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), set up to manage the funds for development purposes.

Though the Network Advancement Programme for Poverty & Disaster Risk Reduction (NAPPDRR) has expressed its unwavering support for the management team named – EMOIMEE, an acronym representing the oil local government areas of Eket, Mbo, Onna, Ikot Abasi Mkpat Enin and Esit Eket, it stressed the need for financial transparency to douse the prevailing tension.

A communique by leaders of the CSO signed by Hon. Emem Edoho, founder and Executive Director; Otuekong Ime Robson, manager, PIA Monitoring/Accountability and Prince Uwem Edukere, manager, Community Development, commended the commitment to transparency and accountability in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and NUPRC Regulations.

“After reviewing the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) report, NAPPDRR applauds the achievements of EMOIMEE HCDT, including the establishment of ICT centres, solar-powered water projects, medical facility upgrades, oil palm processing mills, and various training programmes benefiting women, youths, and persons with disabilities.

“We condemn attempts by influential individuals and traditional rulers to hijack the HCDT for selfish interests, undermining the progress made.

“We urge all stakeholders to support Mkpisong Sir Bassey Dan Abia, Unwana Evans Ekwere, and Engr. Emmanuel Sam, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to transparency.”

“NAPPDRR warns those seeking to derail the HCDT’s development initiatives to desist, emphasising its commitment to holding leaders accountable and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks,” the communique stated.

He listed other achievements of the HCDT to include: ICT centres in the three geo-political zones, solar-powered water projects in all Esit Eket communities, medical facility upgrade at Polyclinic at Uquo community, oil palm processing mills in three zones, manpower training in oil and gas fields, entrepreneurship training for PWDs, women, and youths, as well as scholarship awards to postgraduate students.