Oil firm urges community to protect projects

Ini Billie, Uyo

Oriental Energy Resources Limited, an indigenous oil firm has urged coastal communities in Akwa Ibom State to protect the projects in their locality. 

The oil company stated this on Wednesday while handing over rehabilitated teacher quarters to St Monica’s Primary School, Ibuot Utan, in Effiat, Mbo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking during the commissioning and handover of the quarters to the school Principal, Oriental Energy’s managing director, Mr Mustafa Indimi, advised that an adequate security framework be provided for the teachers’ quarters and associated facilities. 

Indimi who was represented by the Company’s Head of Community Relations, Dr Uwem Ite, said the facility was part of its support to education and human capital development in the Effiat community. 

“The Teachers’ Quarters consist of seven (7) one-bedroom apartments with solar-powered lighting and water supply systems, as well as other internal and external fittings to ensure the comfort of the occupants. 

“The overall goal was to encourage retention of teachers posted to this school as well as increase the levels of educational attainment by young people in Effiat community.

“Without a doubt, today’s ceremony is another practical demonstration of our unwavering commitment to support education and human capital development in the Effiat community. and Akwa Ibom State in general,” he stated. 

While speaking, the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Anietie Etuk who was represented by Sir John Udoh, Board Member, Directorate of School Services commended the people for fostering a conducive environment that has allowed Oriental Energy Resources Limited to thrive. 

“I urge the beneficiaries of this project to embrace it with gratitude, utilize it responsibly, and ensure its maintenance to preserve the high standards achieved,” he said. 

On hi part, Chairman, Mbo Local Government Area, Hon. Sunday Etim said the physical structure would create a nurturing environment essential for the future of the community and its children. 

“Let us also acknowledge the great responsibility that comes with it. The establishment of these facilities is only the beginning. We must continue to strive for the improvement of working conditions, professional development, and the holistic support of our teachers.

“Let this commissioning serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility between Mbo Local Government and Oriental Energy Resources Limited to prioritise education and to invest in our educators,” he stated. 

The contractor of the project, MD/CEO of De Abris Services Nigeria Limited, said, “Today, we stand proud as a construction company with a history of excellence and quality delivery. This project, which will enhance the living standards of the hardworking teachers in this community, is a reflection of our commitment to not only meet but exceed expectations. 

“It speaks to our capacity to deliver beyond ordinary standards and to continue setting new benchmarks in construction and design,” he stated. 

In his response, the Head Teacher, St Monica’s (RCM) School, Mr Augustine Effiong applauded the oil community for rehabilitating the facility, saying the quarters will enable the teachers to be more effective and efficient in educating the children. 

Effiong urged the leadership of Ibuot-Utan and Effiat Clan to protect the school founded in 1925 from a re-emergence of any act of vandalism.

“It is sad to state here that this facility that is renovated and inaugurated today was vandalized by the community because of an internal misunderstanding which could not be amicably settled. 

“This kind of attitude is barbaric, unproductive and does not promote the growth of any place and should be seriously guarded against its reoccurrence,” he stated.