The Head of Corporate Communication, at Belemaoil Producing Limited, Samuel Abel -Jumbo, Â says accumulation of expectation by host communities is a major challenge faced by oil producing companies in Rivers State.
Abel- Jumbo, gave the hint while playing host to the State Executive of Rivers State Independent Publishers Association, Â RIVPA, at the company’s complex in Port Harcourt.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director, Boma Brown, Â Abel- Jumbo said agitations by host communities could be attributed to lack of development and interaction.
This anomaly, Â according to him has impacted negatively on the activities of oil producing companies in the past, this trend he reiterated formed Belemaoil model which is crafted in such a manner that gives communities greater stake, participation and therefore ownership.
He stressed that the era of treating host communities with disdain is over , because Belemaoil is poised to change the orientation of host communities through engagement to enable them understand the corporate policies of the company.
This he emphasized would lead to mutual trust and participation. He called on RIVPA to provide the platform for engagement through the various community based newspapers published .
” we can’t isolate our operations from our host communities. It is an integrated mechanism and so we consider our host communities as very vital to our success .
“Not just our host communities but all stakeholders, and as a matter of fact we recognize the importance of your Association” he stated.
He further assured RIVPA of the company’s committmemt towards the development of local businesses to ensure a more prosperous state.
Abel-Jumbo disclosed that because Belemaoil is operating a joint venture with NNPC which has 60% stake, invariably the Federal Government is supporting and developing these communities.
In her earlier remark, RIVPA Chairman, Â Gloria Boma Harry, Â expressed satisfaction at the proactive stance of Belemaoil and the impact created within the short period it commenced operations.
On his part, Warisenibo Joe Johnson assured Belemaoil of mutual collaboration.
