2 months ago
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The Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has called on the management of Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited, which recently acquired the Nigerian Agip Oil Company, to prevent oil spills and address issues related to employment, contractual benefits, jobs, and environmental pollution in the state.
Diri, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, on Friday, stated that addressing the issues raised is the only way the oil company can end the strained relationship between oil firms and their host communities.
He emphasised that the company must accept both the liabilities and the assets of the oil firm it acquired.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the management team of Oando Energy to the Government House in Yenagoa, the state capital, Diri remarked that multinational companies that neglect corporate social responsibility often mismanage business, leading to conflicts with their host communities.
According to him, qualified indigenes should not only be considered for positions but should also be part of the company’s management.
He assured the company’s management of cooperation, stating that the state had much to gain from peaceful oil operations.
“Part of the reason for the frosty relationship between Bayelsa State, the oil producing communities and the company that you have acquired were around employment, contractual benefits, security jobs and others. We, however, believe this is an opportunity for you to right the wrongs.
“So, in terms of employment and contractual obligations, let the people of Bayelsa be involved. That way, there would be mutual respect, peace and smooth operations in this state”, said the Governor.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Oando, Dr Ainojie Irune, expressed optimism that the company would begin afresh to build a positive working relationship with the state government, noting that the visit was to formally introduce the management team and seek a productive partnership.
