The Southern Youth Foundation of Nigeria, (SYF), has successfully hosted a Public Enlightenment Campaign on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) on Friday 18th April, 2025, in Rivers State.
The programme brought together traditional rulers, youth leaders, and representatives of host communities, all focused on advancing understanding and implementation of the PIA in the Niger Delta region.
In his opening address, the National President of SYF, Amb. Comr. Emeni Ibe, welcomed stakeholders, including the paramount rulers and representatives of host communities, as well as His Royal Highness Eze Prince Ike Ehie, Eze Igbu Olukwor II, who graced the event in grand style.
Amb. Ibe appreciated the support of the Managing Director of Aradel Holdings PLC, Mr. Adegbite Falade, along with Alhaji Buba Umaru and Madam Ijeoma Okoli, for their contributions to the success of the programme. He also confirmed the presentation of awards of excellence to notable individuals, including the Community Affairs Manager of Aradel Holdings, for encouraging the implementation of the PIA.
Amb. Ibe used the opportunity to urge host communities to key into the provisions of the PIA, citing OML 54 as a case study, and thanked Aradel’s management for their support.
During the interactive session, HRH Eze Prince Ike Ehie described the PIA as a “blessing to the host communities,” stressing its significance in community development. However, he lamented a disconnect between Aradel Holdings and his traditional institution, stating that neither he nor the company’s representatives know each other. He emphasized that while concerns exist, communities must avoid vandalism and instead build unity for collective progress.
In similar tone, the Paramount Ruler of Otari in Abua/Odual LGA, Rivers State, expressed frustration over the company’s alleged neglect of his community. He claimed that the Board of Trustees (BoT) appears to be collaborating with Aradel against the community’s interests. This concern was shared by representatives from Ogbele, Oshiugbokor, and Obumeze, who also voiced their dissatisfaction.
Resource personnel present at the event advised communities to maintain peace, adopt structured engagement, and foster internal unity to maximize the benefits of the PIA. They emphasized that true development will only be achieved through strategic dialogue, transparency, and inclusiveness.
The programme ended on a hopeful note, with a renewed call for stakeholders to close communication gaps and prioritize development over division.