….As BOT Members Appeal Against Petition Writings

In a bid to improve the economy of ONNA, the EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) has distributed 30,000 improved oil palm seedlings to 15 communities. This initiative aims to encourage communities to engage in oil palm planting, thereby improving their livelihood.

*BOT MEMBER, ENGR. CLINTON ADDRESSING THE FARMERS IN ONNA*

The distribution exercise, which took place on November 28, 2024 at River Basin Authority, Ikot Ewang, ONNA, was the result of a well-organized consultation with village heads and stakeholders in the Oniong Clan. Each village received 2,000 oil palm seedlings, demonstrating the HCDT’s commitment to community development.

The ExxonMobil NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE HCDT has reaffirmed its dedication to community empowerment, expanding its outreach initiatives to drive positive change and enhance the livelihoods of the people in its host communities.

Barr. Ntiense Mbosoh, a member of the Advisory Committee of the HCDT, emphasized the importance of accountability during the distribution exercise. He strongly advised against selling the oil palm seedlings, stating that the HCDT would not tolerate such behavior. Instead, he encouraged beneficiaries to give the seedlings to willing individuals who are ready to cultivate them. This approach aligns with the Host Community Development Trust’s goal of promoting community development and empowerment, as outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act.

Engineer Clinton Akpan, a BOT Member of the Trust, addressed the beneficiaries to clarify issues surrounding the payment of bursaries to 401 students out of the initial 900. He emphasized that no student from ONNA was intentionally excluded, but rather, the omission was due to incomplete information provided by the students. Akpan reassured the beneficiaries that students with genuine cases would be included in the second batch.

Engr. Clinton clarified that no member of the committee has the authority to make payments or is responsible for disbursing bursary funds. Instead, the committee’s role is limited to verifying the eligibility of beneficiaries through consultants, who then submit the list to Exxon Mobil for approval and payment through their banking channels.

He emphasized that all Committee Members have an open channel to mediate with anyone who has genuine concerns. This approach according to him encourages constructive dialogue and dispute resolution, rather than resorting to petition writings or legal actions against the Trust.

By fostering open communication, the Committee aims to address concerns efficiently and effectively, avoiding unnecessary delays or obstacles that might hinder the progress of the Trust’s initiatives in ONNA. He added

Engr. Clinton Akpan made a promising commitment, stating, “I will personally advocate to the EMOIMEE HCTD for the provision of tractors and fertilizers for your benefit in the 2025 season.”

Also responding to some issues raised, Dr. Joshua Ndoho, Secretary of the Trust, commended the people of ONNA for their patience and emphasized that Exxon Mobil has zero tolerance for non-compliance with the Host Community Development Trust (HCTD) guidelines by any Local Government. This stance underscores Exxon Mobil’s commitment to upholding high standards, as outlined in their Standards of Business Conduct.¹

Dr. Ndoho emphasized that Exxon Mobil will conduct routine checks through its personnels to ensure the success of every program initiated in each Local Government, including ONNA, to guarantee compliance with the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) guidelines.

Dr. Tom Umoh, a Trust member, expressed satisfaction with the village representatives’ organization and beneficiary management. He assured that the Trust’s actions comply with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), emphasizing that no committee member can contravene the Act.

Prior to the distribution exercise, Elder Douglas Udofia, an agricultural expert and instructor, conducted a comprehensive training session. He meticulously guided participants through the essential dos and don’ts for a successful oil palm planting exercise.

RT. Hon Godwin Oton, speaking on behalf of the communities, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the HCDT Committee for their tireless efforts. He acknowledged that the initiative would have a profound impact on the lives of the people of ONNA, improving their livelihood and demonstrating a genuine commitment to community development and empowerment. As the Trust continues to drive positive change, the community eagerly anticipates more impactful projects on the horizon, poised to further transform the lives of the people in ONNA.

The following individuals received 2000 Oil Palm Seedlings each for their respective villages: