Delta Oil & Gas Commissioner Chairs Utorogu Field Contractors Forum Exco Inauguration
By Wilson Macaulay
Chief Vincent Oyibode, the Delta State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, has advocated for peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding between host communities and oil companies operating in Delta State to promote industrial harmony.
The Oil & Gas Commissioner made this clarion call during the inauguration of the new Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees of the Utorogu Field Indigenous Contractors Association of Iwhrekan, Otor-Udu, and Otujeremi on Friday, April 12, 2024. The landmark event took place at the prestigious Otor-Odu Community town hall, with all relevant stakeholders and community leaders of the Utorogu Field in attendance.
Olorogun Vincent Oyibode, the Chairman of the occasion, commended the Association for its commendable efforts and advised the new Exco to redouble their efforts so that they can fully enjoy the benefits of the Local Content Act. He assured the Utorogu Contractors Forum of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s support to build a robust working relationship between the Operators, regulators, and host Communities in the Utorogu Field, utilizing the instrument of his good office as encapsulated in the MORE Agenda.
He emphasized that the Forum’s inauguration aims to guide the process in the operational vicinity of the Utorogu Field to ensure that the right actions are taken for the mutual benefit of all stakeholders.
In his inaugural speech, Hon Samson Onojecheren, the newly inaugurated President of the Utorogu Field Indigenous Contractors Association of Iwhrekan, Otor-Udu, and Otujeremi, thanked the Honorable Commissioner for Oil & Gas for chairing the occasion to a resounding success.
He pledged to work together with the Exco and remain committed to optimizing how best the host communities of Utorogu Field can be developed speedily with accruable funds as stipulated by the PIA ACT.
Hon Samson Onojecheren, the President of the Utorogu Field Contractors Forum, remarked that the successful inauguration of the Exco is a significant milestone. The body he said will continue to play a pivotal role in overseeing and promoting the interests of indigenous contractors operating within the Utorogu Field .
Elder A.C.O. Bakaren, Chairman of the Planning Committee and member of the Board of Trustees,
in his welcome address described the Association as a product of creative thinking aimed at eradicating youth restiveness via constructive engagement and promoting sustainable development.
Mr. Alata Cletus, PRO, Engr. Tony Oghuvwu, Asst Secretary, Engr. Paul Oghomor, Treasurer, and other professionals expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and confidence bestowed upon the new leadership. They outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on enhancing collaboration with stakeholders and promoting indigenous development and capacity building initiatives.
The importance of inclusivity and transparency in driving the association’s agenda forward was emphasized by Mr. Endurance Omoke, Auditor, Mr. Victor Park, Chief Whip, and Mr. Lawrence Kagboru, Financial Secretary.
Hon Chief Eunice Okoh who spoke on behalf of the members of the Board of Trustees expressed confidence and optimism in the Association’s future, pledging support for its growth and development.
Comrade Rufus Onokurhefe, the President General of Iwhrekan Community, speaking on behalf of the Chairmen of the host communities promised full support for the Utorogu Field Contractors Forum’s growth and development.
Chief James Shaguolo an active player in the downstream sector
of the Petroleum industry who was also present advised the Exco to uphold prudence, accountability, and integrity at all times.
Chief Peter Ighofivwoni, a full time member board of Trustees while presenting the vote of thanks, emphasized the need for unity and collective action to address common challenges and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth and prosperity in the host communities of OML 34.
Chief Peter lghofivwoni noted that the inauguration marks a significant step towards fostering collaboration and development within the Utorogu Field, showcasing the commitment of stakeholders to the region’s prosperity and well-being.
While praying for the success of the new Exco and the Board of Trustees to move the Association
to greater heights, he said: “All that begins well ends well. We cannot thank Chief Vincent Oyibode enough. What he has done for us today as the Chairman of the day is a think- tank work, which we appreciate in a measure words cannot express.”
