Host communities in Nigeria’s oil- and gas-producing areas have appealed to the Federal Government and operating companies to significantly expand development programmes in 2026, saying communities that underpin national revenue still see too little impact on livelihoods and basic infrastructure.
The call was made Tuesday in Abuja by the National Chairman of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCom), His Highness Benjamin Style Tamaranebi (JP), during an address to members of the group. Tamaranebi acknowledged that pushing stakeholders to prioritise host-community welfare “has not been an easy task,” but expressed optimism that 2026 could deliver “lasting solutions and legacies” for oil-bearing areas.
“The journey looks rough but I believe this year will bring lasting solutions… just keep believing God can still do something,” he said, urging members to remain united as HOSTCom enters what he described as the final year of its current administration.
Tamaranebi thanked members for sustaining advocacy on behalf of indigenous communities, noting that HOSTCom’s leadership has pressed for “reasonable progress and impact” despite persistent gaps between the value derived from oil-producing areas and what communities say they receive in return.
The appeal comes as host-community development remains a central part of Nigeria’s post-PIA petroleum framework. Under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), operators are required to make annual contributions to Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs)—a mechanism designed to fund projects selected and managed through community-facing governance structures.
Civil society groups and policy analysts have repeatedly argued that the promise of the HCDT model depends on transparency, project quality, and steady funding flows—especially in areas grappling with environmental damage, unemployment and insecurity.
HOSTCom indicated it will intensify engagement with government agencies, regulators and oil firms in the months ahead, as communities press for development that is visible, measurable and aligned with local priorities.
