Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called for a constitutional framework and political will, to ensure oil-producing communities benefit from derivation funds.
Presenting his PhD seminar at the University of Uyo, Governor Eno recommended that traditional rulers, youth associations, community development associations, and individuals in oil-producing communities should receive a fair share of the derivation funds.
The Governor’s seminar presentation was titled, “Natural Resources Governance and Socio-economic Development of Oil Producing Communities in Akwa Ibom State”.
“It is only fair that the communities that bear the burden of oil production should benefit from the resources. We need a system that ensures transparency and accountability in the allocation of derivation funds. This will enable the communities to develop and prosper.”
The Governor’s proposal aims to address the long-standing issue of oil producing communities being neglected in the allocation of derivation funds. Despite being the backbone of the nation’s economy, host communities have been left to suffer from environmental degradation, poverty, and lack of basic infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Governor Eno after his seminar presentation also addressed students of the University of Uyo where he tasked youths in the state to continuously engage in self-development to enable them to take advantage of opportunities globally.
The Governor noted that it was good to prepare and wait for opportunities as opportunity may never wait for anyone.
“While it is good enough to chant ‘build the youth’, the youths must also devise means of building themselves to fit into today’s very competitive society.”
Governor Eno noted that he had finished his coursework some years ago, but could not proceed with the other requirements for the award of a PhD due to his political engagements; and that having finished his seminar presentation, he was ready to complete the entire process.
The Governor appreciated the students for coming to receive him and assured them that educational advancement remains a priority in his administration’s blueprint, the Arise Agenda.
He stated that under his administration, bursaries will be paid yearly to Akwa Ibom Students as well as other educational support where necessary.
