2-Day Capacity Building for OML 42 Host Communities Begins In Ughelli

By Tessy Ogbemi

A two-day capacity building programme for leaders of OML 42 host and impacted communities has commenced in Ughelli, Delta State, with a strong focus on leadership development, conflict resolution, and sustainable community growth.

The training, facilitated by the Center for Peace & Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), kicked off on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Wetland Hotel, Ughelli. It is sponsored by NNPC/NECONDE, operators of OML 42, alongside Jones Creek Hydrocarbon Limited.

During the first session, resource person Dr. Sylvester Okoh JP delivered a lecture on understanding leadership skills, emphasizing the need for competence, accountability, and effective community management.

In the second session, Prince Ambassador Ebilade spoke on conflict resolution and management, community advocacy, and networking, engaging participants in an interactive question-and-answer segment.

Speaking with journalists, the National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Chief Comrade Sheriff Mulade, said the programme was designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of community leaders and promote sustainable development.

According to him, the initiative aims to enhance cordial relationships between oil companies and host communities.

He noted that since CEPEJ began facilitating engagement between communities and operators two years ago, cases of operational shutdowns and disturbances have significantly reduced.

Mulade also revealed that oil production levels in the OML 42 asset have improved drastically from about 18,000 to 20,000 barrels daily to over 60,000 barrels per day in the past year.

He further stressed the importance of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021, noting that many host communities are yet to fully understand or benefit from its provisions.

“The programme also focuses on educating community leaders about opportunities under the PIA so they can take advantage of available development funds,” he said.

Mulade emphasized that peaceful coexistence between companies and host communities is crucial to sustaining operations and supporting Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy.

On his part, the Central Chairman of OML 42, Mr. Windfree Atemubaghan Atikan, described the training as timely and impactful.

He commended the facilitator for organizing the programme and encouraged more frequent trainings to strengthen leadership capacity across communities.

Participants also lauded the initiative, noting that the sessions provided valuable insights that would help improve leadership effectiveness and community relations.

Among those present were Franklin Nworgu, who represented the Managing Director of Jones Creek Hydrocarbon Limited, Engr. Abderahim Noh, as well as Lucky Obiuwevbi, Community Relations Manager, OML 42, and other stakeholders.

The training continues on Friday with additional sessions expected to further address leadership development, PIA opportunities, and conflict management strategies as participants will be issued certificates of participation.