SUMEDHA Energy Ltd (SEL), formerly Natural Oilfield Services Limited (NOSL), and Ibom Developers FZE have been honoured with an Excellence Award by the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State, in recognition of their exceptional contributions to community development and humanitarian services.
The prestigious award was presented by Comrade Bassey Akpan, Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel, who commended both companies for their proactive engagement with host communities and their unwavering commitment to building sustainable relationships.
During the media roundtable ceremony, Comrade Amos Etuk, Chairman of the NUJ in Akwa Ibom State, applauded the companies for fostering inclusive partnerships and promoting socio-economic progress across the state. He urged them to remain steadfast in their collaborative approach to development and peacebuilding.
Reflecting on his visit to Eastern Obolo during a State Labour Committee assignment, Comrade Etuk recalled the critical role played by Ibom Developers in the peaceful reopening of the Ikonta/Obianga creek.
“I am pleased to note that the vital water channels have been reopened,” Etuk stated, praising the company’s “genuine commitment to community engagement.”
He further emphasized the importance of regular site visits and transparent dialogue with host communities as key strategies for combating misinformation, strengthening trust, and sustaining long-term peace and development in the region.
Comrade Idongesit Ashemeri, immediate past Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the positive impact of companies on their host communities. She also lauded the companies for maintaining an open-door policy with the media.
Ashemeri called for deeper collaboration through training initiatives such as media workshops, seminars, and intellectual forums, while also advocating for support in providing essential tools to enhance journalistic practice.
Responding on behalf of the honoured companies, Mrs. Uduak Ekpo, Media Manager for Akwa Ibom, expressed profound gratitude to the NUJ for the recognition. She acknowledged the crucial role of the media in facilitating community development and countering misinformation.
Mrs. Ekpo also addressed misconceptions regarding the presence of “Sterling Global” in Akwa Ibom, clarifying that the operational companies are Ibom Developers FZE and SUMEDHA Energy Ltd (SEL), formerly known as NOSL.
She highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the companies, including scholarships and educational grants, women empowerment schemes, free medical outreaches, and sponsorship of over 50 eye surgeries. Other interventions include support for people with disabilities through walking aids and cash grants, construction of access roads, provision of fishing gear and training for local fishermen, and prioritizing staff welfare with 80% of employees drawn from local communities.
Mrs. Ekpo noted that the companies have also contributed significantly to infrastructure development, including the reopening of the Ikonta/Obianga creek in line with the directives of the State Governor, and maintain a workforce that is over 70% indigenous.
She concluded by appealing for continued media support and collaboration, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital for expanding their community-driven initiatives across Akwa Ibom State.
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