Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Frontier Oil Ltd/Savannah Energy Uquo Gas Ltd has allocated N170.6 million to the Host Community Development Trust, HCDT, for the 2021/2022 fiscal year, with a significant portion earmarked for community development programs.
The allocation was disclosed during a stakeholders’ meeting at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Eket, H R.M. Obong E.C.D. Abia, which which marked the first engagement with Eket community leaders since the Trust’s inauguration in October 2023.
Spokesperson and member of the Board of Trustees, Pastor Ita Udo, explained that the Trust had received its first 3% Operational Expenditure, OPEX, allocation in November 2023 but only accessed the funds in March 2024.
Udo said 56% of the total funds were allocated to the immediate host communities, which include Uqua-isi-Edoho/Idung Udonsak, Ebiekpei/Ebok Asa, Ekpene Ebo, Edo, and Mkpok Ukwa, while 22% of the funds were distributed to other communities within Esit Eket and Eket LGAs.
He detailed that 75% of the N170.6 million was allocated to capital projects, 20% held as a reserved fund for emergencies, and 5% used for administrative costs.
“The N170.6 million is for the 2021/2022 fiscal year, and it represents the 3% OPEX allocation to the Host Community Development Trust. Out of this, N40.1 million has been allocated to Eket Local Government Area, based on the approved sharing matrix. We are focused on using these funds to improve education, skills development, and community welfare.”
Also speaking, the Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Mrs Nelly Ukpong, said the Trust has prioritized scholarships and skills acquisition programs as part of its community empowerment initiatives.
According to Mrs. Ukpong, 62 undergraduates and 31 postgraduates, including eight law school students, received financial assistance as undergraduates were awarded N250,000 each, while postgraduates were granted N500,000 each.
“The scholarship program was designed to support deserving students who are committed to their academic success. We are particularly focused on empowering our youth and ensuring they have access to education.
*In addition, 80 indigenes participated in skills training across various trades such as photography, auto mechanics, fashion design, and catering. 38 petty traders also benefited from business grants of N150,000 each.
“We want to ensure that our youth are not only educated but are also equipped with practical skills that will help them sustain themselves and contribute to the community,” Ukpong added.
During the meeting, the Paramount Ruler of Eket, Obong E.C.D. Abia, lauded the Trust’s efforts but called for a more focused approach, particularly scholarships awards in the area of maritime and aviation disciplines.
“I commend the Trust for its transparency and efforts so far, but I believe that the future of our community lies in specialized education, especially in maritime and aviation fields. These industries will open up numerous opportunities for our youth and help create a sustainable future for Eket.”
Former Minister of Lands and Housing, Chief Nduese Essien, also addressed the gathering, urging the Trust to embark on physical infrastructure projects as part of their legacy.
He further stressed the need for coordination among the various development trusts to avoid project duplication and ensure resources are used effectively.
“I strongly believe that it’s crucial for the Trust and other stakeholders to collaborate closely. We must make sure that our community benefits from lasting infrastructure and development projects that will serve generations to come.”
The Trust further announced plans to hold its first Annual General Meeting in January 2025, where they will review their financial performance and discuss the next steps for community development.
