DELGA Chairman Advocates for Equitable Partnerships Between IOCs, Host Communities

Hon. Dr. Agiriye Monima Harry, Executive Chairman of Degema Local Government Area, has called for a fundamental shift in the way international oil companies (IOCs) engage with their host communities. Speaking to a delegation of Bille stakeholders, including the Bille Council of Chiefs, Community Development Committee (CDC), and Bille Youth Federation (BYF), at the Council Secretariat, Chairman Harry emphasised the need for genuine partnerships that avoid recurring conflicts of interest.

He criticised the “beggarly manner” in which some communities approach negotiations for community benefits, stressing the importance of involving all critical stakeholders before any agreements are finalised. Harry warned against falling prey to the “divide and rule” tactics of IOCs, which often result in communities being shortchanged while individuals receive minimal compensation. “We should be forward-looking and stop cheapening ourselves,” he asserted.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the exclusion of the Council in early-stage negotiations, he pledged to address the uncompleted NDDC solar lights project and other community needs, including potable water and electricity. He also called on all parties to maintain the peace, in the ongoing dispute between Bille and Torusarama Piri, assuring that the matter would be resolved appropriately.

Harry lamented the lack of commitment from security agencies, in securing the waterways, following repeated attacks by sea pirates despite the Council’s financial support, and vowed to address the issue in a security meeting. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and leaving a lasting legacy.

Earlier in their address, the Bille Council of Chiefs commended the Chairman for his unprecedented post-election needs assessment visit and for appointing Bille indigenes to strategic positions within the Council. Through their spokesman, Chief Boma Dappa, they presented a list of pressing community challenges, including water scarcity, electricity shortages, sea piracy, and the Torusarama Piri conflict.

Signed:
Gloria Boma Harry
Chief Press Secretary, DELGA
February 26, 2025