By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
FOR over two years, the people of Ijansa Ijelejele Ikeremor in Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State, have shared a peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship with Kalm Marine and Petroleum Service Limited.
In an era where host communities and oil companies often find themselves at odds, this partnership stands out as a model of cooperation, paving the way for development and long-term prosperity.
Last Thursday, this cordial relationship took a significant step forward as Kalm Marine officially inaugurated its Board of Trustees (BOT), a body that will oversee community development projects and ensure the effective use of funds. The event, held at KFT Event Centre in Warri, was a testament to the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable partnership.
A Model of Corporate-Community Partnership
In his opening remarks, Chief Kestin Pondi, Managing Director of Kalm Marine, represented by Barrister Emmanuel Jakpa, Chief Corporate Officer, praised the community’s unwavering support and peaceful disposition. He noted that the absence of operational shutdowns in the past two years was a clear reflection of the strong bond between the company and the community.
Barrister Emmanuel Jakpa making his remarks on behalf of Chief Kestin
“For over two years, we have operated in this community without any disruptions.
“This is a testament to the peaceful and cooperative nature of the Ijansa Ijelejele Ikeremor people,” Jakpa remarked. “We appreciate your hospitality and will continue to strengthen our partnership.”
Beyond words, Kalm Marine backed its commitment with action. Jakpa reaffirmed the company’s pledge to build a healthcare centre in the community, a project that will be executed outside the statutory three per cent allocation mandated under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
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“This year, Kalm Marine will construct a fully functional healthcare centre in your community. This is separate from what you are entitled to under the PIA,” he assured.
Jakpa in a handshake with members of the BoT
He further highlighted the role of the newly inaugurated Board of Trustees, stressing that it would not only guide the community’s development initiatives but also ensure that allocated funds are efficiently utilised for maximum impact.
“It will be your responsibility to ensure that the funds allocated are used primarily for the benefit of your community.
“The projects you select must deliver maximum value and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Ijansa Ijelejele Ikeremor,” he stated.
NUPRC Backs Kalm Marine’s Initiative
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the industry watchdog, was well represented at the event, signifying the regulatory body’s endorsement of Kalm Marine’s approach to community engagement.
Mr Kingsley Okundia
Speaking on behalf of NUPRC, Mr Kingsley Okundia lauded Kalm Marine for fostering peace and ensuring that the host community benefits from oil exploration activities.
“We are here to ensure that all the processes involved in establishing the BOT align with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
“The purpose of this initiative is to promote economic prosperity, ensure direct social and economic benefits for the community, and maintain lasting peace between the company and its host,” Kingsley stated.
He further reassured the community of NUPRC’s unwavering commitment to regulatory oversight, ensuring that all agreements and obligations are upheld.
The BoT members taking oath of office
Meet the Newly Inaugurated Board of Trustees
The event reached its peak with the inauguration of the six-member Board of Trustees, tasked with overseeing community development initiatives. The board comprises: Chairman: Mr Francis Oyimi, Secretary: Mrs Yerinla-emi Kokole-Ayetoro, Members: Mr David Donye, Presley Bebra, Hon Johnbull Aniyanghan, and Mrs Benedicta Tubolayefa Ziboke.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
In his acceptance speech, newly-appointed Chairman, Mr Francis Oyimi, pledged to uphold the trust placed in the board by both Kalm Marine and the community.
Chairman, Mr Francis Oyimi, receiving the constitution from Barr. Jakpa.
“We are committed to ensuring a harmonious relationship between the community and Kalm Marine.
“The company has been very cooperative, and their expectations of us are high. We will work hard to meet those expectations and continue on the path of progress,” he assured.
He also emphasised the importance of prudent fund management, ensuring that resources earmarked for community development are effectively utilised for infrastructure and social welfare.
Community Leaders Laud Kalm Marine’s Commitment
Several community leaders present at the event expressed their optimism about the development prospects under the PIA.
Members of the community
Chief Favour Izoukumor, Chief Michael Akuobodo, and Chief Richard Evene all acknowledged Kalm Marine’s dedication to corporate social responsibility.
“We are pleased with Kalm Marine’s commitment to our community. They have not only operated peacefully but have also shown a genuine interest in our well-being,” one of the leaders remarked.
A Grand Gathering of Stakeholders
The high-profile event saw the presence of top executives from Kalm Marine and Petroleum Services Limited, including: Chief Operating Officer: Engr Eddy Pondi, Chief Technical Officer: Mr Morgan Amadi, and Chief Financial Officer: Mr Femi Ajayi.
Members of the community
NUPRC officials were also in attendance, including: Acreage Management Division, Abuja: Abdullahi Muhammed, Manager, NUPRC Warri Zonal Office: Okundia Kingsley, Deputy Manager, Warri Zonal Office: Abubakar Muhammed.
The turnout underscored the significance of the occasion and the collective determination to maintain the peaceful coexistence that has defined the relationship between Kalm Marine and Ijansa Ijelejele Ikeremor.
Beyond Oil: A Blueprint for Community Engagement
As the event came to a close, it was evident that Kalm Marine’s approach to corporate social responsibility sets a benchmark for other oil companies operating in the Niger Delta.
Rather than merely extracting resources, the company has embraced a partnership model, recognising that the well-being of its host community is intrinsically linked to the success of its operations.
With the Board of Trustees now in place and a healthcare centre on the horizon, the future looks promising for Ijansa Ijelejele Ikeremor.
For a region that has often been synonymous with tensions between oil companies and host communities, this partnership offers a refreshing blueprint for sustainable development and mutual growth.
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