Midwestern Oil & Gas Company Limited (MWOG), in collaboration with its Joint Venture Partner, SunTrust Atlantic Energies Limited, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Delta State Ministry of Oil and Gas, the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT), and members of its host communities, has successfully commissioned five community development projects executed under the Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) framework.
The projects, comprising five strategic road infrastructure developments with a combined length of 6.6 kilometres, were identified as priority needs by the host communities and captured in their respective Community Development Plans (CDPs). The projects were subsequently executed by indigenous contractors in line with the objectives of promoting local content, enhancing community infrastructure, and promoting sustainable development.
The commissioned projects include:
- Construction of 1km Eleke Road with one-sided drainage and solar streetlights in Umusadege Community.
- Construction of 1km Ebu-Oba Road with solar streetlights in Umusam Community.
- Construction of 1km Ukwu-Ufie Road with solar streetlights in Umusam Community.
- Construction of 1.4km Omikeyenum Road, including toe beam, culverts, and solar streetlights in Ogbeani Community.
- Construction of 1km Amikpu Ogbe-Onicha Road with solar streetlights in Ogbeani Community.
The inauguration ceremony brought together government officials, regulatory representatives, community leaders, and other stakeholders who commended the successful delivery of the projects and their anticipated impact on the socio-economic development of the beneficiary communities.
Speaking during the commissioning, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Midwestern, Engr. (Mrs.) Elozino Olaniyan, FNSE FNSChE FNISafetyE reaffirmed the Company’s commitment to sustainable community development and stakeholder partnership.
“These projects reflect what can be achieved when communities, operators, regulators, and government work together with a shared vision for development. At Midwestern, we remain committed to creating lasting value beyond our operations by supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods, strengthen community infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth within our host communities.”
A representative of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr., Eyitemi D.K, Head, HSE /CA NUPR Warri Regional Office, Ccommended the effective implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust framework and the collaboration among all stakeholders.
“The successful completion of these projects demonstrates the transformative potential of the Host Communities Development Trust provisions under the Petroleum Industry Act. We are encouraged by the commitment shown by the operator, the HCDT, and the communities in ensuring that development priorities identified by the people are translated into tangible projects that improve quality of life.”
Also speaking at the event, the Delta State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Chief Peter Okagbare Uviejitobor, praised the initiative as a model for community-driven development and stakeholder collaboration.
“Infrastructure remains a critical driver of economic growth and social development. These projects will not only improve access and mobility within the beneficiary communities but also contribute to economic activities and enhance the overall well-being of residents. We commend Midwestern, its Joint Venture Partner, and all stakeholders for their commitment to sustainable community development.”
The projects are expected to improve connectivity, enhance safety, support local economic activities, and contribute to the overall development of the beneficiary communities.
The successful completion and commissioning of the projects underscore Midwestern’s continued commitment to responsible operations, stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of impactful development initiatives that create shared value for host communities and other stakeholders.
Through the Host Communities Development Trust, Midwestern and its partners remain focused on supporting community-driven projects that address priority needs while fostering long-term socio-economic growth and sustainable development across their areas of operation.