GMoU: Uduaghan tasks Chevron on increased funding

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has enjoined the management of ChevronNigeria Limited to increase its funding to Itsekiri Oil and Gas Producing /Impacted Communities Development Committee, IRDC, so as to enable it carry outmega projects like shore protection, canalization, sand filling and provision of electricity.

TheGovernor made the call Wednesday August 10 at Wellington Hotel, Effurun duringthe maiden IRDC Annual General Meeting. 

Dr.Uduaghan whose message was delivered by the member representing Warri FederalConstituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, also enjoined themanagement of Chevron to do more in the area of human capital development so asto strengthen the capacity of indigenes of its 23 Oil Producing and ImpactedCommunities.

TheChairman of IRDC, Hon. Omamofe Pirah in an elaborate presentation of theCommittee’s activities from 2006 through 2008, noted that of the 78infrastructural projects awarded by the IRDC within the period under review,majority has been commissioned, while 230 women from the 23 Itsekiricommunities within Chevron’s area of operation have so far benefited from IRDCmicro credit programme. The IRDC Chairman who has just been sworn in as

Commissionerfor Oil and Gas in the State, enjoined Chevron to do more in the area of directemployment of qualified Itsekiris into the company.

Mr.Pirah disclosed that the Olero water project embarked upon by the IRDC will beready in the next three months, while the Delta State government will undertakeits distribution across all communities in the Olero field. He stressed theneed for Chevron to increase funding to the IRDC to enable it embark on megaprojects such as canalization, shore protection as well as electricity.

ChevronGeneral Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, Engr. Femi Odumabo inan address described the AGM as a key fundamental of the GMoU process which ishinged on transparency and accountability. Engr. Odumabo who was represented byMr. Trust Inimgba, expressed delight at the manner in which the IRDC issuccessfully executing a micro credit programme for women within its area ofoperation to boost their businesses. While commending the IRDC for subjectingits accounts to an external body for scrutiny, Engr. Odumabo implore communityleaders, women, youths and stakeholders of its host communities to continuallysupport the implementation of the GMoU, stressing that development can only besustained in an atmosphere of peace.

TheChairman of Community Engagement Management Board, CEMB, Professor Femi Ajibolaas well as community leaders from the 23 Oil and Gas Producing / ImpactedCommunities all commended the achievements of the IRDC within its short periodof operation.

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