The Anyamina-Ama Host Communities Development Trust in Kula, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State has earmarked N1.2 billion as contract sum for rejigging the education system and youth development in the community.
The funds for the project was provided by NNPC/Newcross Joint Ventures, operators of OML 24 oil field in Kula Community in fulfilment of the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Alapuye Eleki, Anyamina-Ama HCDT’s Board Chairman, stated this in Kula while presenting 9 month-duration contract documents to successful indeginious contractors selected after a bidding exercise.
Eleki said that the Board’s decision on choice of project was aimed at addressing infrastructure deficit in public schools and massive youth unemployment in the area.
He explained that the fund, which seeks to remodel existing public schools and construct a new Skills Development Centre was a confirmation of the company’s commitment to the welfare of its host community.
‘The components of the contracts awarded to eight indigenous contractors include renovation and furnishing of Community Secondary School, Kula, renovation and furnishing of State Primary School, Kula.
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“Others are construction of a state-of-the-art Skills Development Centre in Kula as well as construction of Corpers’ Lodge and Staff Quarters covering the Secondary School’s section of the project.
This bold initiative by the board represents landmark collaboration with operating oil companies (NNPC/Newcross Ventures), since the passage of the PIA.
“The project when completed will indeed set a positive precedence worthy of emulation,” he said.
Enya Ojiji, Operations Manager, Newcross Exploration and Production Company Limited, on behalf of the companies promised to prioritise welfare of the host community in line with growth and profitability.
He also urged project managers and the community representatives to effectively monitor the execution of the awarded contracts to ensure timely and quality job delivery.
Kroma Eleki, Paramount Ruler of Kula Kingdom, commended the board and the companies for effective stakeholder collaboration.
He applauded them on project choices which he said would enhance education and the welfare of the people.
