Rivers Communities Empowered to Access Petroleum Industry Act Rights

Oil and gas host communities in Rivers State, Nigeria, have participated in a training program aimed at empowering them to access their rights under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). This two-day sensitization initiative took place on March 12 and 13, 2024, in Port Harcourt, organized by the Center for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University in collaboration with F1 Team Associates.

The training focused on educating community members about the relevant provisions of the PIA. Jude Ndubuisi, a legal practitioner and expert in oil and gas, emphasized the importance of this knowledge for local residents. He stated that the goal was to equip host communities with the necessary information to protect their rights and promote sustainable development in their areas. Ndubuisi remarked, “The whole idea is to explain to the people at the local government council level the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, which is a revolutionary legislation that has brought a lot of changes in the oil and gas ecosystem.”

Rivers State is a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, making it imperative for local communities to understand the PIA’s implications. The law includes various provisions aimed at enhancing the development of host communities, yet many residents remain unaware of their entitlements.

Another expert, Prof. Samuel Chika Dike, who specializes in energy and comparative environmental law, addressed concerns regarding the PIA. He criticized aspects of the legislation that could marginalize host communities, arguing that some oil companies exploit these gaps to violate local rights. Dike stressed the necessity for political will to ensure effective implementation of host community development provisions, calling for amendments to the PIA that would increase community involvement in the establishment and operation of Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs). He stated, “Settlors should not be the one to choose members of the HCDT boards.”

Prof. Kato Kingston, also from Rivers State University and an expert in energy and natural resources law, highlighted the legal avenues available for communities to seek redress when their rights are infringed by oil companies. He pointed out that Chapter 3 of the PIA specifically addresses issues related to host communities, providing them with channels for dispute resolution.

The training program not only aimed to inform but also to empower local residents to advocate for their rights effectively. By understanding the PIA and its provisions, host communities can engage more actively with oil companies and local government, fostering a more equitable relationship.

The initiative reflects a broader effort to ensure that the benefits of oil and gas production are shared with the communities that host these operations, aligning with the objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act. As these communities continue to grapple with the challenges posed by the oil sector, such training sessions play a crucial role in promoting awareness and fostering development.