Oborevwori Warns Oil Firms Against Oppression, Calls for Harmony in Host Communities
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared that his administration will not allow oil companies operating in the state to oppress their host communities, nor will it tolerate disruptions to oil production by aggrieved locals.
Speaking on Tuesday when he received the management of Chevron Nigeria Limited at Government House, Asaba, the governor emphasized the critical role of oil production in the state’s economy, stressing that any disruption could negatively impact revenue generation.
“If oil production is high, Delta State will benefit,” Oborevwori stated. “Today, we are the number one oil-producing state in the country, and we will not tolerate any situation that affects operations. I will not allow oil companies to oppress their host communities, and at the same time, host communities must not hinder oil production.”
He commended Chevron for its longstanding presence in Delta State despite the exodus of many companies from Warri. He urged the firm to deepen its corporate social responsibility initiatives to address the concerns of host communities.
“I have known Chevron all my life because I am a Warri boy. Many companies left Warri, but Chevron remains. This is why, whenever there are community-related issues, I always intervene to foster cooperation,” Oborevwori said.
He acknowledged recent complaints from the Itsekiri Nation regarding electricity and water shortages, revealing that his administration was addressing the water supply challenge. He encouraged Chevron to explore additional ways to support local communities to avert unrest.
“Just a few days ago, community members took over your administrative office at Ekpan, and we had to intervene. Dialogue remains the best approach. You have been with these communities for years and should engage with them openly. Listen to them, address what you can, and be honest about your limitations,” he advised.
The governor also called on Chevron to prioritize the employment of Delta indigenes in senior management roles, noting that many locals remained in lower-level positions despite years of engagement with the company.
“How many of our people are in top management positions in Chevron? Just a few. We want our people in leadership roles, not just as casual staff. When there are employment slots, prioritize the host communities,” he insisted.
Oborevwori assured investors that Delta State remains a safe and conducive environment for business, urging companies to leverage the state’s investor-friendly policies.
In his remarks, Chairman and Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria Limited, Jim Swartz, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustaining its mutually beneficial relationship with the Delta State government and host communities.
“We have operated in Nigeria for over six decades, and for most of those years, it has been in partnership with Delta State,” Swartz said. “Escravos is our home base, and Warri serves as our administrative and logistics hub. We are proud of our record in paying taxes and supporting community development.”
He highlighted Chevron’s various community projects, including cottage hospitals, river boat clinics, classroom blocks, water projects, teachers’ quarters, and town halls, affirming the company’s dedication to improving lives in Delta State.
“We value our partnership with the state government and will continue to work together to foster development,” Swartz added.
