The Niger Delta Citizens Alliance (NDCA) has called on oil companies operating in the Niger Delta to fully comply with their statutory obligations under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), particularly the three percent annual contribution to the Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF).

The NDCA emphasized that sustained compliance by operators would ensure the continuity of critical infrastructure projects, strengthen trust with host communities, and consolidate gains already achieved under the supervision of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

The group also commended the NUPRC for enhancing the welfare of host communities across the oil-producing region over the past four years.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Port Harcourt and jointly signed by its President, Kingsley Charles, and Secretary-General, Ogbobetta Nelli, the NDCA highlighted the Commission’s achievements under the leadership of Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, noting that the agency has redefined resource justice through the transparent implementation of Host Community Development Trusts.

The statement read in part:

“For decades, oil-producing communities were left with promises that never translated into tangible progress. But since the creation of NUPRC in 2021, and under Engr. Komolafe’s stewardship, we have witnessed a genuine transformation. The Host Community Development Trust has restored hope by ensuring that oil wealth is finally reaching the people.”

The group praised the Commission’s oversight of the N373 billion Host Community Development Fund and the over 500 ongoing projects across the Niger Delta, describing it as “the most inclusive community intervention in the nation’s oil history.”

“These projects are not political billboards; they are real. From hospitals and schools in Rivers and Bayelsa to water projects and skill centres in Delta and Akwa Ibom, the impact is visible. NUPRC has bridged the gap between communities and corporations, replacing years of conflict with structured collaboration and accountability,” the statement added.

According to the NDCA, the NUPRC’s digital HostComply dashboard has ensured transparent tracking of community funds, preventing diversion and guaranteeing that every naira is linked to measurable outcomes.

The statement also applauded the Commission’s insistence that project execution prioritizes local labour and suppliers, creating thousands of jobs for young people in host communities. “This model of development is what the Niger Delta has always demanded; a process where the people are participants, not spectators. The success of the Host Community Trust is a testament to what visionary leadership can achieve when transparency meets compassion,” the NDCA noted.

The group reiterated that continued compliance by oil firms is essential to sustain vital infrastructure projects, strengthen community relations, and consolidate the progress achieved under NUPRC’s leadership.