'Empowering communities key to stability in energy sector' - Seplat

Seplat Energy Plc has stated that the execution of corporate social investment (CSI) programmes in oil and gas producing communities as well as empowerment of their people are capable of encouraging stability in the energy sector and ensuring security of critical assets of the nation.

The Chief Operating Officer of Seplat Energy, Mr Samson Ezugworie made the statement during the Society of Petroleum Engineers Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum (SPE OLEF) 2024 organised by SPE Nigeria Council in Abuja.

According to Ezugworie, the operators and the energy industry as a whole must refocus on sustainability and long-term goals.

He said: “In tackling security and ensuring stability in our industry, we must think sustainability and operate responsibly.

"In doing this, we must collaborate; as we can impact our people and communities more collaboratively."

Mr Ezugworie added that Seplat Energy has embarked on several social investment programmes every year in communities they operate.

The social investment programmes cover health, educational, infrastructural and skills/knowledge interventions and this is in alignment with Seplat Energy’s sustainability journey.

He continued: “Operators should be very intentional about these interventions. They don’t come by chance. The idea is to continue to service our partnership with our communities.

“If you keep people empowered and included, they will find less reasons to be agitated or violent. Of course, they will become your partners and show willingness to work with you for the common good of all.”

He hailed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the government for their efforts in securing the oil and gas assets in the country, adding that there are opportunities to do more to further ensure a more stable industry.

BEB